How to complete your VAT (when not using xero)
To find out how to complete your VAT return just click here.
VAT Return Filing Deadlines
The deadline for submitting your VAT return online is usually one calendar month and 7 days after the end of a VAT accounting period.
To help you keep on top of the deadlines, you can go to your online account and tick to receive email reminders of your VAT return being due.
You can download this handy workbook here to keep on top of your deadlines - although we will also email you when your VAT return is due and make sure you never miss the deadline.
VAT Payment Deadlines
All VAT payments must now be made electronically.
Direct debit
Once you are registered to file your returns on-line, you can then also register to pay by direct debit. This method normally gives you an extra three days before any VAT payment due is taken from your bank account and the money will be taken from your account around the 10th or 12th of the month.
To pay by direct debit, log in on-line to your VAT account (once you have received your user ID and password) and you will see an option to set up payments by direct debit. You can see a video showing how to do this here.
Please note that you need to do this well in advance of the return being due to enable HMRC to set up the direct debit in time. We would recommend doing this at least two weeks before filing your return on-line.
Please also note that if you submit your VAT return after the due date, then HMRC will collect the direct debit payment on the third working day after the return is received, and this will give rise to a default surcharge issue.
Other payment methods
To see when you will need to make your payment using other electronic payment methods go to https://www.gov.uk/vat-payment-deadlines.
Electronic payments other than direct debits must be with HMRC one calendar month and 7 days after the end of a VAT accounting period.
Depending on the payment method, you will normally need to make payment by the 5th of the month to enable the payment to reach HMRC by 7th of the month.