What are VAT returns?
A VAT return is a periodic report to HMRC, usually quarterly, comparing output VAT charged on sales with input VAT paid on purchases. The balance is either payable to HMRC or refundable.
Any business with taxable turnover above the £90,000 rolling 12-month threshold must register and file, and businesses below it can register voluntarily. Under Making Tax Digital, all VAT-registered businesses must keep digital records and file through MTD-compatible software. Depending on size and activity, you may use the Standard, Flat Rate, Cash Accounting, Annual Accounting or Margin scheme. Getting the scheme and calculations right matters, because errors carry into every later return.
Our VAT services
VAT return preparation
Accurate returns built from sales and purchase ledgers, bank feeds and supporting documents.
HMRC VAT filing
Submission through MTD-compatible software, with confirmation and an audit trail.
Making Tax Digital compliance
Moving onto digital record-keeping, with software compatibility maintained.
Registration and deregistration
Threshold monitoring, registration applications and deregistration, including final returns.
VAT reconciliation
Control account reconciliations to catch discrepancies early.
Reverse charge, import and export VAT
Reverse charge, postponed VAT accounting, import certificates and export documentation.
Partial exemption and mixed rates
Calculations across mixed-rate transactions, schemes and partially exempt activities.
VAT audit support
Reconciliations, working papers and schedules for HMRC inspections.
Corrections and advisory
Error correction, voluntary disclosures and advice on scheme choice.
VAT deadlines and filing requirements
| Requirement | Deadline | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| VAT registration | Within 30 days of exceeding £90,000 | Late registration can trigger backdated liability |
| Quarterly VAT returns | One month and 7 days after period end | Late submission adds penalty points |
| Monthly VAT returns | One month and 7 days after each month | Affects refund cash flow |
| Annual Accounting Scheme | Two months after year end, with interim payments | Missed payments can lead to withdrawal |
| VAT payments | Same as the return, unless paying by Direct Debit | Late payment triggers penalties and interest |
| Record retention | At least 5 years | Needed for HMRC inspection |
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
What is a VAT return?
A periodic report to HMRC summarising VAT on sales and purchases, with the balance paid or reclaimed.
Who needs to submit VAT returns?
Every VAT-registered business, including those above the £90,000 threshold and those registered voluntarily.
Can you file VAT returns with HMRC?
Yes. We submit through MTD-compatible software under your authorisation, or prepare returns for your own submission.
Which VAT schemes do you support?
Standard, Flat Rate, Cash Accounting, Annual Accounting and Margin schemes, plus partial exemption.
Which accounting software do you use?
Xero, QuickBooks, Sage, FreeAgent, AutoEntry, TaxCalc and Excel.
Can you manage multiple VAT registrations?
Yes, for accountancy firms and group structures.
Do you support import and export VAT?
Yes, including postponed VAT accounting, import VAT certificates and export documentation.