SIOG1630 | Introduction and organisation: recording information: file guidelines

Here are some guidelines for what you should include in an SI investigation file:

• The external correspondence file should contain copies of all outgoing and the originals of all incoming correspondence, including:

• clear evidence of to whom copy letters have been sent

• exactly what information has been faxed to whom and exactly when.

• Notes of telephone calls with taxpayers and, where appropriate, their advisers. These should be placed in the external correspondence file.

• Notes of all telephone conversations or meetings with colleagues in local offices, technical experts, Solicitor’s Office, and so on. These should be put in the internal correspondence file (see TTOG10010 - Appendix 2).

• Where letters, and so on include attachments, which are filed separately; this should be clearly referenced on both sets of papers.

• Notes of any meeting held either with a taxpayer and/or the adviser. They should record the substance of what was said and what was agreed. The notes must be circulated and agreed.

• Notes of meetings must meet the highest standards, for further guidance see SIOG1700.

• Hard copies of all emails sent in relation to the case. Copies of all emails should also be retained in the electronic case folder for that case.