VAT Return Services
Professional, MTD-compliant VAT return preparation and digital submission for UK sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies. All VAT schemes supported, deadlines never missed.
Our VAT Service
ScaleUp Accounting Ltd prepares and submits VAT returns for clients across all VAT schemes. We review your digital records, calculate the VAT due or reclaimable for the period, prepare the return, and submit it digitally to HMRC via Making Tax Digital-compatible software before the deadline.
We also advise on the most appropriate VAT scheme for your business — the Flat Rate Scheme, Cash Accounting Scheme, or Annual Accounting Scheme may each offer cash flow or administrative advantages depending on your trading pattern and customer base.
VAT Schemes We Support
Standard VAT Accounting
The default scheme — VAT is accounted for on the basis of invoices issued and received. Suitable for most VAT-registered businesses.
Flat Rate Scheme (FRS)
Pay a fixed percentage of gross turnover. Reduces administrative complexity and can be financially advantageous for service businesses with low VAT costs.
Cash Accounting Scheme
VAT is accounted for only when payments are received or made. Improves cash flow for businesses with slow-paying customers.
Annual Accounting Scheme
Single VAT return per year with advance payments based on previous year's liability. Reduces filing frequency for qualifying businesses.
When do I need to register for VAT?
You must register for VAT when your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any rolling 12-month period. You can also register voluntarily below this threshold, which may be beneficial if you have significant VAT-bearing costs to reclaim. You must notify HMRC within 30 days of exceeding the threshold.
What VAT schemes are available for small businesses?
HMRC offers several schemes suited to small businesses. The Flat Rate Scheme (FRS) allows businesses with taxable turnover under £150,000 to pay a fixed percentage of gross turnover rather than calculating VAT on individual transactions. The Cash Accounting Scheme allows VAT to be accounted for on the basis of payments received rather than invoices issued, which is beneficial for businesses with slow-paying customers. The Annual Accounting Scheme allows a single VAT return per year with advance payments.
When are VAT returns due?
VAT returns are generally due one calendar month and seven days after the end of your VAT period (e.g. if your quarter ends 31 March, the return and payment are due 7 May). Businesses on the Annual Accounting Scheme submit one return per year. Businesses on the Payment on Account scheme submit quarterly returns with advance payments.
What is Making Tax Digital for VAT?
Making Tax Digital for VAT requires all VAT-registered businesses to maintain digital records and submit VAT returns using HMRC-compatible software. Manual transfer of data between different software or systems (other than through approved digital links) is not permitted. ScaleUp Accounting Ltd handles MTD-compliant VAT submissions using Xero, QuickBooks, FreeAgent, and Sage.
What happens if I submit a VAT return late?
HMRC has introduced a new penalty points system for late VAT returns since January 2023. Each late submission earns a penalty point, and a financial penalty is charged once you reach the points threshold (1 point = £200 for quarterly filers, threshold is 4 points). Persistent late submission results in ongoing financial penalties. Late payment of VAT also incurs interest charges.
Never miss a VAT deadline
Contact ScaleUp Accounting Ltd to discuss your VAT obligations. We will confirm a fixed fee for quarterly or annual VAT return preparation and submission.
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