Lost P45 - what can I do about my P85 form?

[thejoz 0]

Okay, I posted a while about about informing the UK Government about having left the UK so that I don't get called up for jury duty. I was informed that the P85 form was the way to go - not only could I collect any back-taxes I was owed, but I'd also be taken off the jury duty register.

The main reason I want to fill in the form is to let the Government know I'm no longer available for jury duty. I haven't worked in the UK in the past tax year, and really don't think I'm owed anything - honestly, I'm not really bothered about that. I just want to avoid being contacted for jury duty and other things for which I'm no longer available. But the problem is this - it asks for Parts 2 and 3 of my P45 - which I don't have. Unless my parents back in the UK can find it for me, I'm pretty sure it's lost. And the HMRC site says it can't be replaced.

A few questions, therefore:

1. Is the P85 mandatory? I've left the UK already (been in the US since May) and, if so, I obviously want to keep them updated and let them know I've left. From what I've read, there isn't a time limit on sending the form itself (only a time limit on years of back-taxes etc. you can claim) and the form says 'Income Tax form when you have left or are about to leave the UK' and makes it consistently clear it's geared towards both people who have gone already and people who are going to go. But... is it mandatory?

2. Is there any way I can request to be taken off the jury duty register and inform them I've left without submitting this form, if my folks can't find my P45? See, my last job in the UK ended in very late March/very early April 2007. It wasn't like I left a job weeks or days before moving to the US, and during that time, the P45 has gotten misplaced. As my reason for wanting to send this form is to be taken off the jury duty register and not primarily to claim any money (which I'm almost certain I won't have anyway) - is there any other way?

I'm confused, worried and desperate to keep all the right people informed about all the right stuff and everything above board. And I realize I've said the phrase 'jury duty register' million times. But please, any advice you can give this poor ignoramus, please do.

[thejoz 0]

Anyone?

[TayRivers 4]

If all you want to do is avoid jury duty then there is nothing to do. If you were selected from the electoral roll for jury duty they would send it to you last address as you are no longer there you wont get it. If it is a relatives address then all they have to do is write on the envelope "NO LONGER AT THIS ADDRESS" and send it back.

I spent 46 years in the UK and was never called for Jury Duty. You are worrying over nothing. As for the P85 no it is not mandatory to file.

[thejoz 0]

Thanks very much.

I realize I may well be worrying over nothing, as the likelihood of being called up is remote. And I suppose as my parents still live at the old address, should it be an issue they can let me know and I could easily prove that I live in the States now, if required.

Glad to know the P85 isn't mandatory, as it would be a lot of hassle for me, I think.

Cheers for the reply.