VAT, handled properly: registration, schemes and returns
We register you for VAT, choose the scheme that leaves you better off, and prepare, check and file every return under Making Tax Digital. You stay compliant, hit every deadline, and always know what you owe.
Reviewed July 2026. Figures are correct at the date of review. Always check GOV.UK for the latest.
What VAT is
VAT is a tax on most of what you sell. Once you're registered, you charge VAT to your customers, reclaim the VAT you pay on business purchases, and report the difference to HMRC, usually every quarter. Under Making Tax Digital, those records and returns have to be kept and filed digitally.
Who needs it
You must register for VAT once your VAT-taxable turnover passes the£90,000 registration threshold in any rolling 12-month period (or if you expect to pass it within 30 days). Plenty of businesses also register voluntarily below that level (for example, to reclaim VAT on start-up costs or to look more established). We'll tell you which makes sense for you.
Common mistakes
- Not spotting when turnover crosses the registration threshold, and registering late
- Choosing the wrong scheme and paying more VAT than necessary
- Missing quarterly deadlines or filing rushed, inaccurate returns
- Keeping records that don't meet Making Tax Digital rules
- Reclaiming VAT you're not entitled to, or missing VAT you could have claimed
How Xpert helps
We handle the whole thing: registration, choosing the right scheme, and preparing, checking and filing every return through MTD-compliant software. You get deadline reminders, a dedicated accountant who knows your business, and answers within three hours, all on a fixed monthly fee.
Works with your software
We're proficient across all the major accounting platforms (Xero, QuickBooks, Nomisma, Sage, FreeAgent and more), so you can keep the software you already use. Nomisma is included as standard on Professional and Growth+.
Not sure if you need to register? Take our 2-minute quiz and we'll point you in the right direction.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about our VAT service.
Do I have to register for VAT?+
You must register once your VAT-taxable turnover goes over the £90,000 registration threshold in any rolling 12-month period, or if you expect to pass it in the next 30 days. You can also register voluntarily below the threshold if it benefits you. We help you decide.
Which VAT scheme is best for me?+
It depends on your margins, cash flow and how you buy and sell. We look at the Standard, Flat Rate, Cash Accounting and Annual Accounting schemes and set up the one that leaves you better off.
Is your VAT filing Making Tax Digital compliant?+
Yes. We keep digital records and file through HMRC-recognised, MTD-compliant software, so every return meets Making Tax Digital rules.
How often are VAT returns due?+
Most businesses file quarterly, though some file monthly or annually depending on their scheme. We track your dates and prepare each return ahead of time so nothing is late.
What if I have missed a deadline or made a mistake?+
We help you get back on track: bringing returns up to date, correcting errors properly and dealing with HMRC on your behalf. Then we make sure it doesn't happen again.
Can I reclaim the VAT I pay on purchases?+
Once you're registered, you can usually reclaim the VAT on business purchases, subject to the normal rules. We make sure you claim everything you're entitled to.
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