HMRC has introduced several VAT schemes to ease the administrative burden on small businesses. One such beneficial scheme is the VAT Annual Accounting Scheme.
What is the VAT Annual Accounting Scheme?
The Annual Accounting Scheme allows small businesses to submit only one VAT return annually, instead of the usual four. Throughout the year, businesses make instalment payments based on an estimated annual VAT liability, with a final balancing payment due with the annual return. This scheme aids in budgeting, cash flow management, and reducing paperwork.
Eligibility for the Scheme
Businesses can apply to join the scheme if their expected taxable supplies in the next 12 months do not exceed £1.35 million. Additionally, businesses must be up to date with their VAT returns and cannot register as a group of companies.
How to Join the Scheme
To apply, businesses must submit form 600(AA), available on the GOV.UK website or through VAT Notice 732. HMRC will notify the business in writing if the application is accepted.
Paying VAT Under the Scheme
For businesses registered for 12 months or more, VAT is paid in nine monthly instalments of 10% of the previous year’s liability, due at the end of months 4-12 of the current annual accounting period. Alternatively, businesses can opt for three quarterly instalments of 25% of the previous year’s liability, due at the end of months 4, 7, and 10.
Newly registered businesses or those with less than 12 months of registration can also join the scheme, but their instalments—whether monthly or quarterly—are based on an estimated VAT liability. HMRC will advise the instalment amounts.
The annual accounting period usually starts at the beginning of the quarter in which the application is made, or the next quarter if applied late.
Businesses can request HMRC to adjust the instalment levels if there are significant changes in business turnover.
Leaving the Scheme
Businesses can voluntarily leave the scheme at any time by notifying HMRC in writing. However, they must exit the scheme if their annual taxable turnover exceeds £1.6 million.
Advantages of the Scheme
- Reduced Administrative Burden: Only one VAT return is needed annually.
- Improved Cash Flow Management: Monthly liabilities are predictable.
- Extended Deadline: An extra month to complete and pay the VAT return.
- Simplified Calculations: Beneficial for businesses using retail schemes or those that are partially exempt.
Potential Disadvantages
- Higher Interim Payments: Based on the previous year’s liability, which might be higher than needed.
- Obligation to Notify HMRC: Businesses must inform HMRC if there’s a significant change in VAT liability.
How We Can Help
We assist businesses in planning their VAT administration and assessing whether the Annual Accounting Scheme is beneficial for their specific needs.