DMBM531210 - VAT: Annual accounting scheme: Introduction

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Overview of scheme

The annual accounting scheme allows customers to account for VAT by making payments by direct debit, standing order or other electronic means in

  • 9 equal monthly instalments or
  • 3 quarterly instalments.

Determining the payments

The interim payments are determined by

  • the business estimated turnover or
  • the net VAT liability in the previous 12 months.

The annual return and reconciliation

At the end of the year, an annual VAT return is sent in with any balance outstanding.

Overpayment

If more money has been paid than the amount outstanding on the return, the overpayment will be repaid to the customer if there are no other liabilities outstanding.

Underpayment

If the annual return shows an outstanding balance, the customer should enclose payment with the return. If payment is not made, normal recovery rules apply.