How to Fill Out a VAT Return

VAT is a sales tax in Europe.

Value Added Tax (VAT) is a sales tax imposed in Europe on taxable goods and services. If you are a VAT registered business, you are required to collect VAT and file a VAT return every three months at the end of every VAT tax period. Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) sends out paper returns to businesses. At the end of the tax period, fill out the form and return it to HMRC.

Instructions

1. Check that your business name and VAT number on the form are correct. If you have lost your form, order a new one from the HMRC order line at 01702 366376 or 01702 366314.

2. Fill in boxes 1 to 7 on your VAT return. Boxes 1 through 7 ask you for details about sales and purchases. For example, box 1 is the amount of VAT due on sales, and box 2 is the amount of VAT due on good's acquisitions. Complete boxes 8 and 9 if you have traded goods with a business in another European Union business.

3. Write out a check for the total amount of VAT due. Write your VAT registration number on the back of the check.

4. Send your VAT return back to the VAT office in the envelope provided. If you have lost the envelope, send your return to:

   VAT Central Unit

   Alexander House

   Southend-on-Sea

   Essex

   SS99 1AA

Tips & Warnings

• Don't staple checks to returns (leave them loose) or send letters with your returns (letters should be sent in a separate envelope). Enclose any negative figures in brackets. For example, instead of -£99, write (£99). Don't leave any box blank; write "none" or "not applicable."

• If you make a mistake, don't use a white-out product. Cross the number out, then write the correct figure. Place your initials near the correction.

References

• My Business: Make a VAT Return
• Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs: Filling in Your VAT Return
• HMRC: How to Pay VAT