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