VAT – advantages of the VAT Flat Rate Scheme

Small business? The VAT Flat Rate Scheme could cut paperwork and improve cash flow. Pay VAT as a set percentage of turnover and enjoy simpler admin, budgeting ease, and even a 1% discount in year one of your registration for VAT.
The VAT Flat Rate Scheme is designed to simplify the process of VAT
VAT exempt supplies

Not all VAT-free sales are the same. Understanding the key difference between zero-rated and VAT-exempt supplies could save your business money and prevent costly VAT mistakes.
It’s important to understand the distinction between zero-rated and VAT-exempt supplies. While both may appear similar,
When can you deregister for VAT?

Considering VAT deregistration? Whether compulsory or voluntary, knowing the rules, deadlines and risks of delay can save your business from costly penalties.
The decision to deregister for VAT may be necessary or beneficial in a range of circumstances. Whether it’s a legal requirement or a
Changes to VAT on donations to charities

The government is consulting on new VAT relief for goods donated to charities for free use. Could this fix an unfair gap in current rules? Have your say by 21 July 2025.
A new joint consultation from HM Treasury and HMRC, titled “VAT Treatment of Business Donations of Goods to Charity”
VAT Road Fuel Scale Charges

The new VAT road fuel scale charges applicable from 1 May 2025 to 30 April 2026 have been published. The changes amend the VAT scale charges for taxing private use of road fuel to reflect changes in fuel prices.
HMRC has released new VAT fuel scale charges effective from 1 May 2025. If your
Understanding VAT Bad Debt Relief

Struggling with unpaid invoices? If you’ve paid VAT to HMRC but never received payment from your customer, you may be able to reclaim that VAT. Learn how bad debt relief works and whether switching to cash accounting could ease your VAT woes.
The VAT bad debt relief provisions enable businesses to
VAT if you sell your business

When selling a business, the Transfer of a Business as a Going Concern (TOGC) rules can allow the transaction to be VAT-free if key conditions are met. This prevents unnecessary VAT charges and ensures compliance with HMRC. Learn how TOGC applies to your sale.
A TOGC is defined as "neither a
How VAT Payments on Account Work

Businesses owing over £2.3 million in VAT annually must make advance payments on account. These are based on the previous year’s VAT liability and paid in instalments. Late payments incur penalties, but adjustments may be possible for fluctuating liabilities.
The payments are usually based on the
VAT and the goods you use in your own business

Using business goods instead of selling them is usually VAT-free, but some cases require VAT payments. These "taxable self-supplies" include cars taken from stock and certain buildings. Read on to see how to stay compliant.
If your business makes products or buys and sells them, you might
What’s included in your VAT return

With a £90,000 VAT registration threshold, many UK businesses might wonder whether to register voluntarily. Understanding how to balance output and input VAT can help optimise cash flow and avoid costly mistakes with HMRC.
The current VAT registration threshold for businesses is £90,000 in taxable