Services
VAT returns
We prepare each VAT return from your bookkeeping records, go through the figures with you and submit the return through Making Tax Digital-compatible software once you have approved it.
Who this service is for
VAT-registered businesses that want each return prepared from reconciled records and checked before it is submitted.
Businesses approaching the registration threshold, or newly registered, that need to understand what changes once they charge VAT.
What the service covers
- Checking the VAT treatment of your sales and purchases
- Preparing each return from your bookkeeping records
- Reconciling your VAT account so the return ties back to your books
- Reviewing the figures with you before the return is submitted
- Submitting the return through Making Tax Digital-compatible software
- Confirming the VAT due, or the amount you can reclaim
- A reminder as each return period comes round
How it works
Step 1: Review your position
We look at your VAT registration, the scheme you use and how your records are kept.
Step 2: Prepare the return
We prepare the return from your records and investigate anything that looks out of line.
Step 3: You approve it
We send you the figures and the transactions behind them. Nothing is submitted until you approve the return.
Step 4: Submit and keep a record
The approved return is submitted through MTD-compatible software, and you keep a copy of what was filed.
Information we need from you
- Your VAT registration number and the dates of your return periods
- Access to your accounting software, or your bookkeeping records for the period
- Sales and purchase invoices for the period
- Details of any VAT scheme you use, such as the Flat Rate Scheme
- Any letters or notices from HMRC about your VAT
Common questions
What is Making Tax Digital for VAT?
Making Tax Digital is HMRC’s requirement for VAT-registered businesses to keep digital records and submit VAT returns using compatible software. Xero, QuickBooks, Sage and FreeAgent all support it.
Should I register for VAT?
Registration becomes compulsory once your taxable turnover exceeds the VAT registration threshold, and some businesses choose to register earlier. Whether that makes sense depends on who your customers are and what you buy. We can review your position during your consultation.
Can you help me choose a VAT scheme?
We can explain how schemes such as the Flat Rate Scheme and cash accounting work, and set out the figures so you can see whether one might suit you. The decision is yours.
Can you help if a VAT return was late or wrong?
Yes. Tell us what happened and we will look at the correct way to put it right, including whether an error can be corrected on a later return.
Related services
Who this service suits
- Sole tradersBookkeeping, VAT returns and year-end figures for self-employed people running their own business.
- StartupsCompany formation, bookkeeping from the first transaction and cash-flow forecasts for new businesses.
- eCommerce sellersBookkeeping and VAT for online sellers, with each payout broken down into sales, fees and refunds.
- Hospitality and restaurantsBookkeeping, payroll and VAT for cafés, restaurants and other hospitality businesses.
Discuss your requirements
Request a free initial consultation by phone or video. If we can help, we send you a quote before any work starts.
- Free initial consultation by phone or video
- Remote service, available anywhere in the UK