HSBC Bank (UK) Pension Scheme (PO-16816)

Ombudsman’s Determination

Outcome

I do not uphold Mrs T’s complaint and no further action is required by HSBC.

My reasons for reaching this decision are explained in more detail below.

Complaint summary

Mrs T is unhappy because HSBC calculated the tax on her benefits from the Scheme incorrectly. As a result, part of the benefits she received ought to have been withheld and paid to HMRC as income tax.

Mrs T is now being asked by HMRC to pay the outstanding tax amount. However, she has spent the money which it is seeking to recover, and believes HSBC should therefore pay HMRC instead.