Tax
VAT returns and VAT advice in London
VAT registration and Making Tax Digital returns, filed accurately and on time.
What is it
What is VAT and when do you need to register?
Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged on most goods and services sold by VAT-registered businesses in the UK. The standard rate is 20%, with a reduced rate of 5% and a zero rate for certain goods and services. Registered businesses charge VAT on their sales, reclaim the VAT on eligible costs and pay HMRC the difference.
Key VAT rules
- You must register if your taxable turnover goes over £90,000 in any rolling 12-month period, or is expected to in the next 30 days.
- You can apply to deregister if your turnover falls below £88,000.
- All VAT-registered businesses must keep digital records and file returns using Making Tax Digital software.
- Returns and payments are usually due 1 month and 7 days after the end of each VAT period.
Late returns earn penalty points and late payments attract penalties from day 15, so getting the deadlines right matters.
Who we help
Who we help with VAT
VAT for London businesses at every stage, from freelancers nearing the threshold to complex companies and charities.
Small and medium-sized businesses
MTD-compliant VAT returns reconciled to your accounts.
Growing and international businesses
Imports, exports, overseas services and partial exemption.
Charities
VAT reliefs, zero-rating and exempt income for not-for-profits.
Start-ups and new VAT registrants
Monitoring the £90,000 threshold and choosing the right VAT scheme.
What’s included
What our VAT service includes
VAT registration
Registering your business or charity with HMRC at the right time and setting up your VAT records correctly.
VAT return preparation
Preparing your returns from your sales and purchase records, checking VAT rates and reclaiming every eligible cost.
Making Tax Digital filing
Submitting your VAT returns through MTD-compatible software before every deadline.
VAT scheme advice
Advice on the Flat Rate, Cash Accounting and Annual Accounting schemes, and on whether voluntary registration makes sense.
HMRC enquiries and VAT inspections
Support and representation if HMRC questions a return, carries out a compliance check or issues a penalty.
Pricing & transparency
We believe in clear, upfront information so you know exactly what to expect. The cost of our VAT service depends on how often you file, the number of transactions and the complexity of your VAT position. We provide a transparent quote with no hidden fees.
Price list
Pricing & transparency
We believe in clear, upfront information so you know exactly what to expect. The cost of our VAT service depends on how often you file, the number of transactions and the complexity of your VAT position. We provide a transparent quote with no hidden fees.
Services
Related services
Income tax – self assessments
Preparation and submission of personal income tax returns.
Corporation tax
Accurate calculation and filing of corporation tax.
R&D
Support with Research & Development tax credits.
FAQ
VAT: frequently asked questions
What is the VAT registration threshold?
The threshold is £90,000 of taxable turnover. You must register if your turnover for the last 12 months goes over £90,000, or if you expect it to go over £90,000 in the next 30 days alone.
When are VAT returns due?
Most businesses file quarterly. The return and payment are normally due 1 month and 7 days after the end of each VAT period, and returns must be filed using Making Tax Digital software.
What are the penalties for late VAT returns and payments?
Each late return earns a penalty point, and once a quarterly filer reaches 4 points HMRC charges a £200 penalty for each further late return. For late payments there is no penalty if you pay within 15 days; after that a 3% penalty applies, a further 3% after 30 days, and then a daily penalty at 10% a year, plus interest.
Should I register for VAT voluntarily?
It can make sense if most of your customers are VAT-registered businesses or if you have significant costs with VAT on them. If you mainly sell to private individuals it may make your prices less competitive, so it is worth reviewing your figures first.
Which VAT scheme is right for my business?
It depends on your turnover, costs and cash flow. The Flat Rate Scheme can simplify returns, the Cash Accounting Scheme helps if customers pay slowly, and the Annual Accounting Scheme spreads payments across the year. We compare the options for you.
Licenses & certificates
Request a consultation
Personalised financial guidance
Speak with our experts to discuss your accounting, tax, or corporate needs. Whether you are an individual, a startup, or an established business, we provide personalised guidance and reliable advice tailored to your circumstances
