VAT Returns
Get in touchAt Professional Accountants, we help businesses and across the UK stay fully compliant with ever-evolving VAT regulations.
From preparing accurate returns to ensuring on-time submissions, our expert VAT support gives you peace of mind and reduces the risk of penalties from HMRC.
Whether you’re a small business newly registered for VAT or an established company managing complex VAT schemes, our tailored services are designed to save you time, minimise tax liability, and ensure full compliance with Making Tax Digital (MTD) rules.
What Do VAT Returns and Compliance Services Cost in or Around ?
The cost of VAT returns and compliance services ranges from £100 to over £300 per return, depending on the size of your business, the filing frequency, and the complexity of your VAT records.
Costs are primarily influenced by factors such as the level of bookkeeping required, the number of VAT schemes used, international transactions, and Making Tax Digital (MTD) compliance.
Contact VAT Compliance Services to get customised prices for managing VAT returns for your business.
Why Is Accurate VAT Compliance Essential for Businesses?
Accurate VAT returns and compliance are not only a legal obligation but also a key aspect of financial health for businesses. Errors in VAT calculations or missed filing deadlines can result in HMRC penalties, investigations, and reputational damage.
Accurate compliance ensures you’re not overpaying tax or under-declaring liabilities. With the introduction of MTD for VAT, digital record-keeping and timely electronic submissions are now mandatory, making professional oversight more important than ever for businesses of all sizes.
What’s Included in a Professional VAT Return Service for -Based Businesses?
We offer comprehensive VAT returns and compliance services designed to keep your business compliant and efficient, including:
Review and reconciliation of VAT records – Ensures accuracy and consistency across all financial data before filing.
Preparation of VAT returns – Compiles all relevant sales and purchase information for accurate reporting.
Submission via MTD-compliant software – Files returns digitally in line with HMRC’s Making Tax Digital requirements.
HMRC correspondence – Manages communication with HMRC on your behalf for queries or investigations.
VAT savings identification – Highlights opportunities to optimise VAT recovery and reduce liabilities.
Verification of input and output VAT – Confirms correct categorisation and treatment of transactions.
VAT scheme assessment – Reviews the suitability of your current VAT scheme for your business operations.
EC Sales List filing – Prepares and submits reports for EU-based sales where applicable.
Intrastat reporting – Handles trade reporting requirements for goods movement within the EU.
Partial exemption calculations – Calculates VAT recovery where both taxable and exempt supplies exist.
Do VAT Services Cover MTD Submissions, EC Sales Lists, and Reconciliations?
Our VAT returns and compliance services are fully aligned with MTD regulations and include digital filing through HMRC-approved software. For businesses that trade with the EU or overseas, services often include the preparation and submission of EC Sales Lists and Intrastat declarations.
Providers also carry out reconciliation between your VAT return and bookkeeping records to ensure data accuracy, which is essential for audit protection and financial transparency.
Can You Get Help With Late Returns, VAT Inspections, or Disputes?
If you’ve missed a VAT filing deadline or are facing a potential penalty or investigation, local VAT returns and compliance specialists can assist with bringing your returns up to date and negotiating with HMRC on your behalf.
Many offer compliance health checks, pre-inspection reviews, and support with voluntary disclosures to minimise penalties. In the event of a dispute or challenge from HMRC, experienced advisors can represent you and provide clear advice on how to respond.
Is Outsourcing VAT Returns a Cost-Effective Way to Stay Compliant?
Outsourcing VAT returns and compliance is often more cost-effective than handling it in-house, particularly for growing businesses without dedicated finance staff. Professionals not only reduce the risk of fines but can also spot opportunities for VAT recovery or savings you may have overlooked.
This proactive approach to VAT compliance can lead to better cash flow management, fewer surprises from HMRC, and reduced admin workload, allowing you to focus on running your business.
What VAT Schemes Are Available to Businesses?
Businesses can access several VAT compliance and returns schemes designed to suit different business sizes and trading activities, including:
Standard VAT Scheme – Calculates VAT based on the difference between output tax on sales and input tax on purchases.
Flat Rate Scheme – Simplifies VAT reporting for smaller businesses by applying a fixed percentage to turnover.
Annual Accounting Scheme – Reduces the frequency of VAT returns by allowing a single annual submission with advance payments.
Cash Accounting Scheme – Allows businesses to account for VAT only when payments are received or made, improving cash flow management.
Margin Scheme – Applies VAT only to the profit margin, commonly used by second-hand goods, antiques, and art dealers.
Retail Schemes – Designed for retail businesses with high transaction volumes, simplifying VAT calculations across mixed-rate goods.
Group VAT Registration – Enables related companies under common control to file a single VAT return for the group.
Second-Hand Margin Schemes – Tailored for sectors trading in used goods, vehicles, or collectibles.
Tour Operators Margin Scheme (TOMS) – Specifically for travel businesses, calculating VAT on the margin of travel services sold.
How Often Should VAT Returns Be Filed and Reviewed for Accuracy?
Most businesses submit VAT returns and compliance quarterly, although some may opt for monthly or annual reporting depending on their scheme.
It’s best practice to review VAT reports monthly, even if you file quarterly, to catch discrepancies early. A professional service ensures that all returns are reconciled to your accounts, invoices, and payments, reducing the risk of HMRC queries and keeping your financial records clean and up to date.
Contact Professional Accountants for a consultation on getting VAT returns and compliance services.