DMBM531020 - Debt and return pursuit: VAT: deregistered customers and revenue losses: initial action

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Each type of de-registration is recorded on the VISION ledger (LR) screen and identified by a specific code.

Type

Code

Ceased to trade

01

Transfer of a Going Concern (TOGC)

02

Exemption from registration

03

Continuing to trade below the threshold

04

Invalid entry/duplicate registration

05

Missing Trader

06

Company joining a VAT group

07

Assets transferring as TOGC to/from a VAT group

08

Customer joining Flat Rate Scheme

09

 

Before taking any action to recover a debt, access VISION to make sure the debt has been properly finalised.

If there are any:

  • ‘open’ periods (that is periods for which a return has not been submitted and an assessment has not been issued) or
  • unresolved ‘error’ returns

consult the VRS Deregistration team.

Current debt management action must also be taken into account. For example, if distraint has already been levied on the customer, urgent action will be needed to preserve the assets. If a debt is only identified after de-registration, it is important to contact the customer quickly to improve the possibility of collecting full payment.