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VAT Returns

What happens if I file a VAT return late?

Answered by the TAG Accountancy team · Norwich, Norfolk

Quick Answer

HMRC's points-based system gives you a penalty point for each late return. Once you reach the threshold for your filing frequency — four points for quarterly returns —…

HMRC’s points-based system gives you a penalty point for each late return. Once you reach the threshold for your filing frequency — four points for quarterly returns — you get a £200 penalty, and a further £200 for every late return after that.

Late payment is separate and charged as a percentage of the tax outstanding, increasing the longer it goes unpaid, plus interest. Points do expire after a period of compliance, so getting back on track does eventually clear the slate.

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