Payroll Scams Are Circulating

Payroll Scams Are Circulating — Recruitment Agencies and Businesses, Please Be Careful

After 26 years in recruitment across the North East of Scotland, I’ve learned that when economic pressure rises, the scams get bolder.

HMRC’s latest Employer Bulletin (19 August) includes a warning every business in our region should take seriously.

HMRC has confirmed that some organisations are promoting fraudulent payroll models claiming they can reduce employment costs using “tax credits” from other companies — but these claims are false .

In many cases, PAYE and National Insurance aren’t being paid at all, and false documents are created to make the setup look legitimate.

My message to employers and fellow consultancies is simple:

If a payroll model promises big savings through unusual tax mechanisms, treat it with real caution. Compliance protects your people, your reputation, and your future stability.

If you’re unsure about anything you’ve been approached with, HMRC encourages businesses to contact them or make a disclosure.

🔗 HMRC Employer Bulletin (19 August 2026):https://lnkd.in/ew38Ymdx

We look out for each other in the North East of Scotland — staying informed is how we keep our businesses strong.

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