VAT Return Services

Expert Support to Keep You Compliant, Accurate, and HMRC-Ready

If your business is VAT-registered in the UK, submitting accurate and timely VAT Returns is a legal requirement. But with multiple VAT schemes, Making Tax Digital (MTD) obligations, and ever-changing regulations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or make costly errors.

At HPL Accountancy, we provide a comprehensive VAT Return service – handling everything from registration and scheme selection to ongoing submission, compliance, and advice. Whether you’re a sole trader, limited company or growing SME, we ensure your VAT affairs are managed professionally, accurately, and on time.

What Is a VAT Return?

A VAT Return is a report submitted to HMRC – usually quarterly – that summarises your VAT position. It includes:

• VAT you’ve charged to customers (output tax)
• VAT you’ve paid on business expenses (input tax)

If you’ve collected more VAT than you’ve paid, the difference is owed to HMRC. If you’ve paid more than you’ve collected, you may be due a refund.

All VAT Returns must now be submitted digitally using MTD-compliant software.

Who Needs to Submit a VAT Return?

You must submit VAT Returns if:

• Your taxable turnover exceeds the VAT threshold (£90,000 in 2025/26)
• You’ve voluntarily registered for VAT (even below the threshold)

Returns are typically filed quarterly, but some businesses opt for monthly or annual submissions depending on cash flow and operations.

What’s Included in a VAT Return?

A standard VAT Return includes:

• Total sales and purchases (including exempt/zero-rated items)
• VAT charged on sales (output VAT)
• VAT paid on purchases (input VAT)
• Net VAT to pay or reclaim
• Adjustments (e.g. partial exemption, bad debt relief, EC acquisitions)

Returns must be submitted using MTD-approved software, and all figures must be backed by digital records.

Common VAT Challenges

Many businesses face difficulties with:

• Applying the correct VAT rate (standard, reduced, or zero)
• Managing international transactions and reverse charge rules
• Partial exemption and capital goods scheme adjustments
• Using flat-rate or cash accounting schemes
• Complying with MTD requirements
• Keeping up with regulatory changes

Even small errors can trigger penalties, delays, or HMRC enquiries. That’s why professional support is essential.

How HPL Accountancy Can Help

We offer a complete VAT solution to ensure your compliance, efficiency, and peace of mind.

1. VAT Registration & Scheme Advice

Not sure if you need to register? We’ll:

• Confirm whether registration is required
• Register your business with HMRC
• Advise on the best VAT scheme for your sector (standard, flat-rate, cash accounting, annual accounting)

2. Accurate VAT Calculations

We prepare each VAT Return using your financial records, ensuring:

• Correct output and input VAT figures
• Full MTD compliance
• Any necessary adjustments (e.g. partial exemption or previous period corrections)

Every submission is backed by robust documentation.

3. Making Tax Digital (MTD) Support

All VAT-registered businesses must comply with MTD. We’ll:

• Recommend and implement suitable cloud software
• Provide training or manage submissions directly
• Keep your digital records audit-ready

4. Timely Submission to HMRC

We manage your deadlines and file your VAT Returns on time, every time, ensuring no penalties or surcharges from HMRC.

5. HMRC Enquiries & VAT Inspections

If your business is selected for a VAT inspection or if HMRC queries a submission, we’ll:

• Liaise with HMRC on your behalf
• Prepare all supporting documentation
• Resolve disputes professionally and promptly

6. Ongoing VAT Advice & Planning

Whether you’re trading internationally, working in construction, or navigating sector-specific VAT rules, we provide:

• Ongoing advice tailored to your business
• Guidance on future VAT obligations
• Tax-efficient planning to optimise your VAT position

Benefits of Outsourcing Your VAT Returns

By working with HPL Accountancy, you gain:

✔ Peace of mind that your VAT Returns are accurate and compliant
✔ More time to focus on your core business
✔ Reduced risk of penalties, errors, and HMRC scrutiny
✔ Strategic VAT advice to support growth and cash flow
✔ Full support with VAT refunds, audits, or scheme changes

Why Choose HPL Accountancy?

We’re not just accountants – we’re VAT specialists who understand the real-world challenges businesses face. Our service combines technical accuracy, strategic insight, and reliable delivery.

• Experienced in complex VAT issues across industries
• MTD-compliant software and training
• Personalised service from a UK-based team
• Transparent fees – no hidden charges
• Responsive, proactive support when you need it

Let Us Take Care of Your VAT Returns

VAT doesn’t have to be a headache. With HPL Accountancy managing your VAT compliance, you’ll always be on the right side of HMRC – with accurate, timely, and fully supported submissions.

Need help with your VAT Returns?
Contact us today to speak with a VAT specialist and find out how we can streamline your VAT process.