Always raise a formal complaint

[BrilloPad]

The VAT people have been giving me grief recently. I underpaid VAT - agreed the amount with them. I then paid by adding into my normal quarterly VAT payment - I told them what I was doing. I was then sent a bill - and I wrote back to explain what happened. All goes quiet and so I presume matter is closed. Suddenly I get a red bill threatening me with baliffs. No contact details. Amount similar to amount of underpayment.

So I raise a formal complaint. Suddenly get a phone call - it can all be sorted out straight away - do I want to go ahead with complaint. I say no and they are happy.

Raising a formal complaint has also helped me sort out the PAYE people. And worked wonders with the CSA.

[Flubster]

I don't have any complaints with the VAT man (nor with the CSA or PAYE). Should I still raise a complaint on the basis of getting ones retaliation in first?