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VAT Return Preparation and Support for UK Businesses

VAT-registered businesses must submit accurate VAT returns and pay any VAT owed on time. T&N Accountancy provides organised VAT return support to help ensure your records are complete and your return is prepared correctly each period.

Get VAT Return Support

VAT Registration and Obligations

If your business's taxable turnover exceeds the current VAT registration threshold in any 12-month period, you are required to register for VAT with HMRC. Once registered, you must:

Charge VAT on applicable goods and services at the correct rate
Submit VAT returns to HMRC (usually quarterly)
Pay any VAT owed to HMRC by the payment deadline
Keep accurate VAT records for at least 6 years
Comply with Making Tax Digital (MTD) requirements for VAT
Issue valid VAT invoices to VAT-registered customers where required

Businesses can also voluntarily register for VAT below the threshold if it makes sense for their situation. If you are considering VAT registration, please contact us to discuss your circumstances.

Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT

HMRC's Making Tax Digital programme requires all VAT-registered businesses to keep digital records and submit VAT returns using MTD-compatible software. This has been a requirement for most VAT-registered businesses for some time. If you are VAT-registered and not yet compliant with MTD for VAT, please contact us to discuss what steps are needed.

What Our VAT Support May Include

  • Reviewing and organising your VAT records each quarter
  • Preparing your VAT return from your bookkeeping records
  • Checking that VAT has been correctly applied to income and expenses
  • Submitting your VAT return via MTD-compatible software
  • Confirming the VAT amount due and the payment deadline
  • Helping with VAT record-keeping to support future returns

VAT Rules Can Be Complex

VAT rates, exemptions, and rules vary significantly depending on the type of goods and services you supply. VAT rules can also change. This page provides general information only. Please contact us to discuss your specific VAT situation and requirements.

Most VAT-registered businesses submit quarterly VAT returns. Your VAT return period will be set when you register for VAT. Some businesses may submit monthly or annual returns depending on their circumstances. Your VAT return deadline is typically one calendar month and 7 days after the end of your VAT period.

Submitting or paying VAT late can result in penalties from HMRC. HMRC introduced a new VAT penalty regime which applies a points-based system for late submissions and separate penalties for late payment. Please contact us if you are concerned about an upcoming VAT deadline.

Need Help With Your VAT Returns?

Contact T&N Accountancy and we will help ensure your VAT records are in order and your returns are prepared correctly and on time.