All VAT-registered businesses must now submit their VAT Returns online
VAT Returns go online
All VAT-registered businesses in the UK will now have to submit their VAT Returns online, and pay electronically, for periods starting on or after 1 April 2012.
Previously, only newly-registered businesses and those with turnovers of more than £100,000 had to submit their VAT online, as well as pay electronically. Anyone else could send HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) a paper VAT Return, but this will no longer be an option.
VAT Returns online
To submit your VAT Return online, you will need to register and enrol for HMRC’s VAT Online Service. If you haven’t done so already, you need to take action now. To register, visit the HMRC website, click ‘Register’ under the ‘New user’ section and follow the instructions. You can register for online services on the HMRC website.
Benefits of online filing
Online filing has a number of benefits, compared to paper filing:
- an automatic acknowledgement that your return has been received
- a handy sum checker
- an email alert to remind you when your next online return is due
Guidance
There is extensive VAT guidance for businesses on the nibusinessinfo.co.uk website. There are also specific guidance and support on submitting your VAT Return online especially if you are new and unfamiliar with the process. See our guides on:
- Moving from paper to online VAT Returns and paying electronically
- How to sign up to use VAT online services
- How to submit your VAT Return online
- Penalties for submitting a VAT Return on paper instead of online
Also on this site
Related links
Source: nibusinessinfo.co.uk
