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VAT returns go online

News Release issued by the COI News Distribution Service on 26 March 2012

Big changes for VAT-registered businesses are happening this April, as 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.

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 www.online.hmrc.gov.uk, click “Register” under the “New user” section and follow the instructions.

Online filing has a number of benefits, compared to paper filing:

an automatic acknowledgement that your return has been received;

a handy sum checker; and

an email alert to remind you when your next online return is due.

Help and advice is available from HMRC’s website at www.hmrc.gov.uk/vat/online-return-help.pdf or the VAT Online Helpdesk on 0845 010 8500 (available between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday).

Notes for editors

1. Newly-registered businesses, and those with turnovers of more than £100,000, have had to submit and pay their VAT online since 1 April 2010.

2. Follow HMRC on Twitter @HMRCgovuk

NAT 30/12

Issued by HM Revenue & Customs Press Office Press enquiries only please contact:

Contacts:

HM Revenue & Customs
news.reply@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk

Jan Marszewski
Phone: 0207 147 0798
jan.marszewski@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk

HMRC Out of Hours
Phone: 07860 359544
NDS.HMRC@coi.gsi.gov.uk