VAT Return Services – Stay Compliant, Avoid Penalties
Meet your VAT obligations without the stress
If your business is VAT registered, you are required to submit VAT returns to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). These returns detail how much VAT you’ve charged customers (output tax) and how much you’ve paid on purchases (input tax). HMRC’s standard deadline is one calendar month and seven days after the end of each accounting period, and you must submit a return even if you have no VAT to pay or reclaim.
Missing deadlines can incur penalty points and fines, our specialists take care of your VAT returns, ensuring they’re prepared accurately and filed promptly.
We’ll keep you compliant with HMRC requirements and steer you clear of penalties, giving you clear financial insight and more time to grow your business.
Why VAT Returns Matter
Legal obligation
VAT‑registered businesses must file returns every three months (or annually if using the Annual Accounting Scheme). Even if you owe nothing, you still need to submit a return.
Strict deadlines
The return and payment are normally due one calendar month and 7 days after your accounting period ends.
Digital records & software
MTD requires most businesses to maintain digital VAT records and file returns using compliant software.
Penalty points system
Late submission earns a penalty point; reaching the threshold (4 points for quarterly filers) results in a £200 fine and further £200 penalties for each additional late submission.
Late payments also attract penalties starting when payments are 16 days overdue.
Our VAT Return Service
We offer a comprehensive VAT return solution tailored to your business:
Deadline tracking
Your VAT deadlines are tracked in our system so you can have the confidence that they won’t be missed and everything is in hand.
Record review
We verify that sales and purchase transactions are recorded correctly, the right VAT codes have been applied and identify errors or missing information.
Return preparation & filing
We prepare your VAT return, review it with you for accuracy and submit it to HMRC before the deadline. We’ll also advise you on the amount due how to make payment.
Ongoing guidance
We answer VAT queries and keep you updated on legislative changes, such as changes to penalty thresholds or new MTD rules.
Benefits of Outsourcing Your VAT Returns
Peace of mind
Delegating VAT compliance to experts reduces the risk of errors and penalties, giving you confidence that your returns are correct and filed on time.
Time savings
Preparing VAT returns can be time‑consuming. Outsourcing frees you to focus on core business activities such as sales, operations and growth.
Compliance & reduced penalties
We track deadlines, maintain digital records and ensure your returns meet HMRC requirements, helping you avoid penalty points and late payment fines.
Informed decisions
Our clear reports show what you owe or can reclaim and help you understand how VAT affects your cash flow so you can prepare well in advance of the payment deadline without any last minute shocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are VAT returns due?
For most businesses, VAT returns and payments are due one calendar month and seven days after the end of your accounting period. Under the Annual Accounting Scheme the return is due two months after a 4–12‑month accounting period.
Do I need to file a return if I have no VAT to pay?
Yes. If you are registered for VAT you must submit a VAT return even if you have no VAT to pay or reclaim.
What happens if my return is late?
HMRC operates a penalty points system: each late submission earns a point and once you reach four points (for quarterly filers) you receive a £200 penalty. You remain at the threshold and receive additional £200 penalties for further late submissions until points expire. Late payments also trigger penalties if you pay 16 or more days overdue.
Do I need Making Tax Digital software?
Most VAT‑registered businesses must keep digital VAT records and use software to submit their returns. We ensure your records and submissions meet these requirements and can help you choose the right software.
Take the Stress Out of VAT Returns.
VAT compliance can be complex, but it doesn’t need to be time‑consuming or risky. With our dedicated VAT return service you’ll meet deadlines, avoid penalties and gain clarity over your VAT position. Contact us today to discuss your VAT return needs and arrange a free consultation.