VAT Returns & VAT Services for UK Businesses

From registration and return submissions to ongoing guidance, we help businesses manage their obligations accurately and on time.

VAT Support for Growing Businesses

Many businesses start out with relatively straightforward VAT obligations. As a business grows, however, VAT often becomes more complex.Whether you are registering for the first time, submitting regular returns, or dealing with HMRC queries, having the right advice can help reduce errors and keep things running smoothly.

We work with a wide range of businesses, including limited companies, contractors, landlords, tradespeople, e-commerce businesses and growing owner-managed companies across the UK.

Incorrect VAT treatment, missed deadlines or inaccurate submissions can result in penalties and unnecessary costs. We help businesses stay on top of their VAT obligations and avoid unnecessary problems.

VAT Registration

Knowing when and how to register for VAT is an important part of running a business.

We assist with:

VAT registration applications
Voluntary VAT registration
Advice on registration thresholds
Choosing an appropriate VAT scheme
HMRC correspondence relating to registration
Transitioning newly registered businesses onto VAT systems

For some businesses, voluntary registration can offer advantages, while for others it may create unnecessary administrative responsibilities. We help you understand the options available before making a decision.

VAT Returns & Ongoing Compliance

Preparing accurate VAT returns is essential for avoiding mistakes and meeting HMRC requirements.

Our VAT return services include:

VAT return preparation and submission
Review of VAT transactions and records
Error identification and corrections
VAT reviews and health checks
Ongoing VAT advice
Assistance with HMRC correspondence and enquiries

This may include requests for records, repayment checks, assessments, penalty notices, and other VAT-related matters raised by HMRC.

Where appropriate, we can also support businesses with Making Tax Digital for VAT requirements and suitable software solutions.

VAT Schemes & Advice

The right VAT scheme can make a significant difference to how your business manages VAT.

We provide guidance on:

Flat Rate Scheme
Cash Accounting Scheme
Annual Accounting Scheme
Retail Schemes
Margin Schemes
Industry-specific VAT considerations

Choosing the most suitable VAT scheme can affect cash flow, administration, and reporting requirements. We help businesses understand which option may be most appropriate for their circumstances.

We also provide guidance on more complex VAT areas, including imports, exports, reverse charge VAT, digital services, overseas transactions, partial exemption and other specialist VAT matters where additional support may be required.

Some of the VAT Issues We See Most Often

Many businesses approach us after experiencing:

missed VAT filing deadlines
uncertainty about VAT registration requirements
VAT errors requiring correction
confusion over VAT schemes
HMRC correspondence and enquiries
inaccurate historical VAT submissions
uncertainty over the correct VAT treatment of transactions
lack of proactive support from previous accountants

Many VAT issues are easier to resolve when addressed early. We can review previous VAT returns, identify potential errors, and help put things right before they become larger compliance problems.

Not Sure Whether Your VAT Position Is Correct?

Client Reviews

Ghuman Transport

★★★★★

I've been using RAIMS Accountants in Manchester for VAT and general company accounting and honestly it's made things a lot easier.I'm not an expert with VAT stuff, so I needed someone who could just deal with it properly without me constantly worrying about deadlines or HMRC issues. They sorted the VAT registration, explained what I actually needed to do in plain terms, and since then they've been handling the VAT returns without any problems.

MB UK

★★★★★

Excellent service covering limited company accounts, corporation tax, VAT returns, bookkeeping, payroll, CIS returns and refunds, self assessment, personal tax, business start-up support, company formation, and UTR number applications. Very professional ACCA qualified accountant offering affordable one-to-one service and ongoing HMRC compliance support.

Ali Irshad

★★★★★

I had an HMRC VAT investigation to deal with and RAIMS Accountants did not disappoint. Very professional, knowledgeable, and efficient when dealing with HMRC. Highly recommended for VAT and tax matters.

Faisal Shahzad

★★★★★

Very happy with services provided by RAIMS Accountants who helped me getting fully prepared for Making Tax Digital for Self Assessment and explained everything clearly from the start.

You're in Good Hands

❮ ❯

Many business owners are comfortable running their business but would rather not spend time worrying about VAT rules and HMRC requirements.

Whether you need help with registration, VAT returns, scheme selection or HMRC correspondence, we're here to help.

Our aim is to make VAT easier to manage so you can focus on running your business.

Many business owners are comfortable running their business but would rather not spend time worrying about VAT rules and HMRC requirements.

Whether you need help with registration, VAT returns, scheme selection or HMRC correspondence, we're here to help.

Our aim is to make VAT easier to manage so you can focus on running your business.

Our VAT Process

Understand Your Business

We review your business activities, VAT position, and existing processes to understand your requirements.

Review Your VAT Records

We assess your VAT records and identify any issues, risks, or opportunities for improvement.

Prepare & Submit VAT Returns

VAT returns are prepared accurately and submitted on time through HMRC-approved systems.

Ongoing VAT Support

We remain available throughout the year to answer questions, provide guidance, and help manage future VAT obligations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register for VAT?

VAT registration is normally required once taxable turnover exceeds the relevant HMRC threshold, although some businesses choose to register voluntarily.

Can you register my business for VAT?

Yes. We can manage the VAT registration process and deal with HMRC on your behalf.

Can you submit my VAT returns?

Yes. We prepare and submit VAT returns through HMRC-approved systems.

What VAT scheme should I use?

The most suitable scheme depends on your business activities, turnover, and circumstances. We can help you evaluate the available options.

Can you help if previous VAT returns were incorrect?

Yes. We can review historical VAT records, identify issues, and advise on corrective action where required.

Do you help businesses using Making Tax Digital?

Yes. We can assist businesses with MTD for VAT requirements and suitable software solutions.

Can you deal with HMRC VAT enquiries?

Yes. We can help respond to HMRC correspondence and provide support during VAT-related enquiries.

What records do I need to keep for VAT?

Businesses are generally required to keep records of sales, expenses, VAT invoices and other supporting documents. If you are registered for Making Tax Digital, digital record keeping requirements will also apply. We can advise on what records should be retained and how to keep them organised.

Can you take over my VAT returns from my previous accountant?

Yes. We can manage the handover process, obtain the necessary information from your previous accountant, and help ensure your VAT submissions continue without disruption.

Can you help with VAT on imports, exports or international services?

Yes. We can advise on VAT matters relating to imports, exports, reverse charge transactions, digital services and certain overseas supplies where specialist VAT treatment may be required.

What happens if I miss a VAT deadline?

HMRC may issue penalties or interest if a deadline is missed. If this happens, we can help you get back on track, correct any issues and communicate with HMRC if needed.

VAT Doesn't Have to Be Complicated

Whether you’re dealing with VAT for the first time or looking for more proactive support, we can help you manage your VAT responsibilities with confidence.