VAT Returns & MTD Compliance for SMEs

Q: Which VAT scheme should I use?

Standard, Cash Accounting, Flat Rate, or Retail. Your eligibility and margins determine the best fit. We review your data and recommend the optimal scheme.

Q: Do I need an accountant to file VAT returns?

Not required by law, but an accountant reduces errors, protects cash flow, and helps you stay MTD-compliant and penalty-free.

Q: How do I reclaim VAT?

Keep valid VAT invoices/receipts, apply scheme rules, and reconcile regularly. We set up simple MTD-ready processes so you reclaim correctly.

Q: What happens if I miss the deadline?

You may face penalties and interest. We use proactive calendars and reminders so submissions and payments are on time.

Q: Can I switch VAT schemes mid-year?

Often yes, if eligibility criteria are met and HMRC procedures are followed. We handle the checks and paperwork.

Q: What is the VAT rate?

The UK standard rate is 20%, with reduced and zero-rated categories depending on goods and services.

Q: How does VAT work on overseas sales/services?

VAT treatment depends on place-of-supply rules, customer type (B2B/B2C) and location (EU or rest of world). Exports of goods are usually zero-rated with evidence; imports use import VAT. Many B2B services are reverse-charged to the customer. We review your scenarios and set up compliant invoicing and records.

Q: Can I reclaim VAT on pre-registration purchases?

In many cases yes—subject to time limits and evidence. We review eligibility and capture claims correctly.

VAT Shouldn’t Feel Like a Minefield

Because every mistake, missed deadline, or HMRC letter can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

Running a business is demanding enough without needing to decode VAT rules or juggle MTD software updates. Whether you’re filing quarterly, reclaiming input tax, or figuring out international rules, BondEsq makes it make sense.

We don’t just do returns—we remove the overwhelm.

Deadline Management: Never miss a return or payment deadline again—automated alerts keep you ahead of HMRC.
MTD Compliance Made Easy: We’ll help you stay compliant with digital record-keeping, submissions, and secure digital links.
Smart VAT Planning: Know when to register, what schemes fit best, and how to reclaim what’s rightfully yours.
Input Tax Support: Maximise recovery with expert guidance on reclaiming VAT on business expenses, assets, and more.
Effortless Record-Keeping: Setup and maintain simple systems that meet compliance without slowing you down.
HMRC Liaison: No more sweating over letters—our team deals with queries, audits, and disputes on your behalf.
Cash Flow Advice: Manage your VAT liabilities wisely, and learn how to protect your business’s cash flow.
Complex Situations? We’ve Got You: From capital goods schemes to partial exemptions—we make it simple and stress-free.

Let's File It Right

What’s Included in Our VAT Services

Deadline Management

Return and payment calendars, reminders, and filing windows handled for you.

MTD Compliance Made Easy

MTD-ready records, digital links, reviewed submissions, and error checks.

Smart VAT Planning

Registration timing, scheme selection (Standard, Cash, Flat Rate, Retail), partial exemption, and reviews.

Input Tax Support

Expenses, assets, vehicles, imports, EU B2B/B2C, reverse charge—reclaimed correctly.

Effortless Record-Keeping

Simple processes, clean reconciliations, and documentation that stands up to HMRC.

HMRC Liaison

We handle queries, provide evidence, and keep conversations factual and calm.

Cash Flow Advice

Forecast liabilities, align payment plans, and avoid cash crunches.

Complex Situations

Capital Goods Scheme, partial exemption, margin schemes, and international VAT.

Book a Free VAT Call

How We Work (The BondEsq VAT Method)

1) Diagnose

We review your current VAT setup, software, and deadlines to spot risks and quick wins.

2) Prepare

We reconcile records, fix gaps, and create clean, MTD-ready submissions.

3) File & Support

We submit on time, confirm receipts, and respond to any HMRC follow-ups.

4) Improve

We optimise schemes, processes, and cash flow so each quarter gets easier.

Let’s Fix It Right

VAT FAQs (Clear & No-Jargon)

Which VAT scheme should I use?

Standard (accruals), Cash Accounting, Flat Rate, or Retail. Your choice depends on turnover, margins, and admin load. We’ll run the numbers and recommend the best fit.

Do I need an accountant to file VAT returns?

Not legally, but it reduces errors, protects cash flow, and helps you avoid penalties. We keep you MTD-compliant and on time.

How do I reclaim VAT?

Keep VAT invoices/receipts, apply the right scheme rules, and reconcile regularly. We’ll set up simple processes so you recover what you’re owed.

What happens if I miss the deadline?

You could face penalties and interest. We put reminders and buffers in place so submissions and payments land on time.

Can I switch VAT schemes mid-year?

Often yes, if you meet eligibility rules and follow switch procedures. We’ll handle the checks and paperwork.

What is the VAT rate?

The standard UK rate is 20% (with reduced and zero-rated categories). We’ll confirm the correct rate for your goods/services.

Who has to register for VAT?

Businesses must register when taxable turnover exceeds the current HMRC threshold of £90,000. We’ll help you decide when to register voluntarily.

Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT

Most VAT-registered businesses must keep digital records and file via compatible software. We make your setup compliant and streamlined.

How does VAT work on overseas sales/services?

VAT depends on the place-of-supply and whether your customer is a business (B2B) or consumer (B2C), and if they’re in the EU or outside the UK. Exports of goods are usually zero-rated if evidence is kept; imports use import VAT. Services often follow customer location, with reverse charge for many B2B supplies. We’ll check your scenarios, set up invoices correctly, and keep your records HMRC-proof.

Can I reclaim VAT on pre-registration purchases?

In many cases yes (time limits apply). We’ll review eligibility and capture claims correctly.