VAT Return
A periodic report that VAT-registered businesses must submit to HMRC, typically quarterly, showing the VAT they have charged customers and the VAT they have paid on purchases. The difference between output tax (VAT charged) and input tax (VAT reclaimed) determines whether the business owes money to HMRC or is due a refund. Returns must be submitted and payment made through HMRC's Making Tax Digital platform.
Related Terms
Value Added Tax
A consumption tax charged at each stage of production and distribution on goods and services, with the final burden falling on the end consumer.
VAT Registration Threshold
The level of taxable turnover above which businesses must register for VAT, currently £90,000 per rolling 12-month period.
Standard Rate VAT
The main VAT rate of 20% applied to most goods and services sold in the UK by VAT-registered businesses.
Flat Rate Scheme
A simplified VAT accounting method for small businesses with an annual turnover below £150,000, where you pay a fixed percentage of your gross turnover to HMRC instead of accounting for input and output VAT separately.
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