How long do you keep my questions?

Unpublished questions are deleted after twelve months. You can ask us to delete yours sooner at any time.

Can I ask a follow-up question?

Yes. Reply to the answer email, or use the follow-up form under any published answer.

What happens after I send a question?

You get an email to say it arrived. A member of the team reads it, writes a plain-language answer and lets you know when it is ready.

How do I choose the right professional for my question?

Check that they are qualified for the kind of work you need, ask how they charge before you start, and get the agreement in writing.

Is the information I send kept private?

Questions are only published with your permission and with personal details removed. Our privacy policy explains the rest.

What is the difference between general information and advice?

General information explains how things usually work. Advice applies the rules to your own facts. This site gives general information.

How quickly will I get an answer?

Most questions get a reply within two working days. Busy seasons can take longer, and we say so on the front page when they do.

What should I have ready before I ask a question?

A few sentences of background, the dates that matter and the outcome you want. Most good answers start with a clear question.