How to Make a VAT Return

VAT is a type of sales tax in Europe.

The Value Added Tax (VAT) is a type of tax on goods and services in Europe. VAT-registered businesses are required by law to submit quarterly returns for VAT. The returns are due on a schedule set by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the VAT collection department for the United Kingdom government. HMRC online services walks you through the step-by-step process necessary to complete your quarterly VAT return online.

Instructions

1. Register online for HMRC services (go to the link in Resources and click on "Register"). You will need to provide basic information, like your VAT Registration Number and postcode. Make sure to check the "VAT return" check box on the second page.

2. Log into HMRC online with the user ID you received in Step 1.

3. Click on the "Access" button next to "VAT: Submit a VAT return/Set up a VAT Direct Debit Instruction."

4. Click on the "Submit a Return" link.

5. Choose the VAT period for which you want to fill out a return. Click on the relevant period in the "Period" column.

6. Fill out boxes 1 through 9 with your sales and purchases totals. Click on "Next" for the acknowledgment page indicating your return has been accepted by HMRC.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have enough time to fill out the complete return, click on the "Save draft return" button on the return to save your draft. Make sure you return to submit your VAT return by the due date.

References

• HMRC: Filling in Your VAT Return
• HMRC: Submit VAT Return - Introduction

Resources

• HMRC: HMRC Online Services