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VAT

The VAT issues you need to consider when running your business.

Concise information on the VAT issues you need to consider when running your business. Click on the links below to access the relevant information.

VAT - a summary

VAT registered businesses act as unpaid tax collectors and are required to account both promptly and accurately for all the tax revenue collected by them. This factsheet highlights some of the areas that you need to consider when running your business.

VAT - annual accounting scheme

The annual accounting scheme helps small businesses by allowing them to submit only one VAT return annually rather than the normal four.

VAT - bad debt relief

This factsheet explains the situations where the VAT bad debt relief applies.

VAT - cash accounting

Cash accounting enables a business to account for and pay VAT on the basis of cash received and paid rather than on the basis of invoices issued and received. The factsheet explains the workings of cash accounting.

VAT - flat rate scheme

The VAT flat rate scheme for small businesses potentially reduces the administrative burden imposed when operating VAT. Under the scheme, a set percentage is applied to the turnover of the business as a one-off calculation instead of having to identify and record the VAT on each sale and purchase you make. This factsheet explains how the VAT Flat Rate Scheme works.

VAT - Making Tax Digital

An overview of the Making Tax Digital for VAT regulations.

VAT - seven key points for the smaller business

This factsheet focuses on VAT matters of relevance to the smaller business. A primary aim is to highlight common risk areas as a better understanding can contribute to a reduction of errors and help to minimise penalties.

Latest News

08 Apr 2026

HMRC investigations doubles additional tax from large businesses

HMRC's large business directorate has doubled the amount of tax revenue it collects, according to the National Audit Office (NAO).

08 Apr 2026

HMRC takes £137 million in late payment interest

HMRC has taken in over £137 million from late payment interest so far for 2023/24, a freedom of information request from investment platform AJ Bell shows.