VAT is one of the most complex areas of UK tax law — and HMRC's Making Tax Digital rules have added another layer. We handle your VAT returns accurately and on time, every quarter.
If your turnover exceeds £90,000 per year, you must register for VAT and submit quarterly returns to HMRC. Even below that threshold, voluntary VAT registration can sometimes be advantageous — and we can help you decide whether it makes sense for your business.
Every quarter, we review your VAT records, prepare your return, and submit it digitally under Making Tax Digital (MTD) — the HMRC requirement for digital VAT record-keeping. We'll also tell you how much you owe and when, so you can plan your cash flow accordingly.
Beyond the basics, we can advise on the most tax-efficient VAT scheme for your situation. The flat rate scheme, for example, can save certain businesses a meaningful amount each year compared to the standard method.
Get a quoteThere are several VAT schemes available to UK businesses, and choosing the right one can make a real difference to how much you pay. We'll advise you on the best option for your specific situation.
The default method. You charge VAT on sales, reclaim VAT on purchases, and pay the difference to HMRC each quarter. Best for businesses with significant VATable expenses they want to reclaim.
You pay a fixed percentage of your gross turnover to HMRC, depending on your industry. Often simpler and cheaper for service-based businesses with lower VATable expenses. We can model whether it saves you money.
You account for VAT based on when invoices are paid, rather than when they're issued. Excellent for businesses with slow-paying clients, as it avoids paying VAT before you've received the money.
Making Tax Digital (MTD) is HMRC's requirement for VAT-registered businesses to keep digital records and submit their VAT returns using compatible software. Since April 2022, this applies to all VAT-registered businesses regardless of size. We use MTD-compatible software and handle all submissions on your behalf.
You must register for VAT when your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any rolling 12-month period. You can also register voluntarily below this threshold — which can be beneficial if your clients are VAT-registered businesses who can reclaim the VAT you charge. We'll advise on whether voluntary registration makes sense for you.
HMRC operates a penalty points system for late VAT returns. Accumulate enough points and you'll receive a financial penalty. If you've fallen behind, let us know immediately — we'll get you back on track as quickly as possible and can sometimes help you avoid or reduce penalties.
In many cases, yes. You can reclaim VAT on goods you purchased up to four years before your VAT registration date, and on services received up to six months before. It's worth reviewing your pre-registration purchases — there may be VAT to reclaim that you're not aware of.
Talk to us about your VAT obligations. We'll take over the quarterly returns and make sure you're on the right scheme from day one.