VAT Returns will usually be submitted to HMRC every 3 months to record things like:

• your total sales and purchases
• the amount of VAT you owe
• the amount of VAT you can reclaim
• what your VAT refund from HMRC is

If you need a VAT number and online account, you can register for both, here.

VAT-registered businesses can usually reclaim the VAT that they’ve paid on business purchases and expenses. The claim must be for a business activity and you need to keep records to support your claim and show the VAT was paid.

If you using accountants or agents for help with your finances, you’ll need to authorise them before they can submit your VAT Return. You can do this through your VAT online account.

You can contact the VAT Online Services Helpdesk if you need any help using VAT online services.

Visit the government website for more help on submitting a VAT Return, while you can also watch this handy YouTube video on how to complete your return online.

For more information and support on taxes, visit the Buckinghamshire Business First support tool and click on ‘Red Tape’.