Reclaiming pre-trading VAT

Reclaiming pre-trading VAT

There are special rules that determine the recoverability of VAT incurred before a business registered for VAT. This type of VAT is known as pre-registration input VAT. There are different rules for the supply of goods and services, but VAT can only be reclaimed if...
Are we unpaid tax collectors?

Are we unpaid tax collectors?

Business owners often refer to VAT as if it were a cost to their business regardless of their VAT position; whether they are registered for VAT or not. If you are not registered for VAT, you do not have to add VAT to your sales and you cannot recover any VAT you pay...
Correcting errors in VAT returns

Correcting errors in VAT returns

Where an error on a past VAT return is uncovered businesses have a duty to correct the error as soon as possible. As a general rule, any necessary adjustment can be made on a current VAT return. To do this, the errors must be below the reporting threshold. Under the...
VAT reverse charge for builders

VAT reverse charge for builders

There are special VAT reverse charge rules for certain building contractors and sub-contractors. The rules, which came into effect on 1 March 2021, makes the supply of most construction services between construction or building businesses subject to the domestic...
Check a VAT number

Check a VAT number

The Check a UK VAT number service is available at: www.gov.uk/check-uk-vat-number. This service allows users to check: if a UK VAT registration number is valid; and the name and address of the registered business. The service also allows UK taxpayers to obtain a...
VAT boost to charitable donations

VAT boost to charitable donations

The government is looking to introduce a new relief that would provide a VAT boost to charitable donations. The new VAT relief would be designed to encourage businesses to donate everyday items to charities without creating a VAT liability. A 12-week consultation on...