SOUTH Lakeland taxpayers completing self assessment forms are being urged to extra care or face being taken to court.
The risk of prosecution has been raised by the introduction of a new criminal offence of evading income tax.
Tax advisors in the area warn that the Inland Revenue is taking a much tougher stance on carelessness.
Furness-based Russell Longton, of the North West Society of Chartered Accountants, said: "Cases of tax evasion can now be heard in magistrates courts, making prosecutions easier and cheaper".
Mr Longton, of Melville & Co in Barrow, said: "Previously prosecutions were only brought when very large sums were involved, but now there is the prospect that simply making a mistake could people in court, so everyone must be very careful".
Self assessment tax returns have to be submitted by the end of this month to avoid a £100 fixed penalty.
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