If you're VAT registered, keeping on top of your VAT deadlines is an important part of managing your tax obligations. For most businesses, VAT Returns and payments are due one calendar month and seven days after the end of each VAT accounting period.
However, your exact payment schedule will depend on how often you submit your VAT Returns and whether you use a scheme such as Annual Accounting. In this guide, we'll explain the different VAT payment deadlines, how to check yours and what happens if you miss one.
When Is the VAT Payment Deadline?
Most VAT-registered businesses submit a VAT Return every three months. Your VAT Return tells HMRC how much VAT you've charged and how much you've paid during that accounting period.
The deadline for submitting your VAT Return online is usually one calendar month and seven days after the end of your accounting period. This is normally also the deadline for paying any VAT you owe.
Your payment must reach HMRC's account by the deadline, so you'll need to allow enough time for your chosen payment method to clear.
Different deadlines and payment arrangements can apply if you use the Annual Accounting Scheme or make VAT payments on account.
Quarterly VAT Deadlines
Most businesses submit VAT Returns every three months, with each three-month period known as a VAT accounting period.
If you submit quarterly VAT Returns, your return and payment are normally due one calendar month and seven days after the end of the period.
For example, if your VAT accounting period ends on 30 June, your usual VAT Return and payment deadline will be 7 August.
You can check the dates of your accounting periods and upcoming deadlines in your VAT online account.
Monthly VAT Deadlines
Some businesses submit VAT Returns monthly rather than quarterly.
The usual deadline works in the same way: your VAT Return and payment are generally due one calendar month and seven days after the end of the monthly accounting period.
For example, if your monthly VAT period ends on 31 August, the usual deadline will be 7 October.
Annual Accounting Scheme Deadlines
The VAT Annual Accounting Scheme works differently. Instead of submitting four VAT Returns each year, you normally submit one annual return and make advance payments towards your VAT bill throughout the year.
You can make either:
- Nine monthly payments, usually equal to 10% of your estimated VAT bill; or
- Three quarterly payments, usually equal to 25% of your estimated VAT bill.
HMRC will tell you how much your advance payments are and when they're due.
At the end of your annual accounting period, you submit your VAT Return and calculate your actual VAT bill. If you still owe VAT after your advance payments are taken into account, you'll make a final balancing payment. If you've paid too much, you may instead be due a refund.
For a standard 12-month Annual Accounting period, your VAT Return and any balancing payment are normally due two months after the end of the accounting period
How Do I Check My VAT Deadline?
You can check your VAT Return and payment deadlines through your VAT online account. This will show your accounting periods and when your next return and payment are due.
HMRC also has an online VAT payment deadline calculator, which you can use to work out your payment date based on the end of your accounting period. However, you can't use the calculator if you make payments on account or use the Annual Accounting Scheme.
HMRC also now offers a wider tax deadline checker, which can calculate your VAT deadlines and gives you the option to add them to your calendar.
Remember that it's the date your payment reaches HMRC that matters. Different payment methods can take different amounts of time to clear, so it's worth checking this before leaving your payment until the deadline.
For more information about the different ways you can pay, read our guide to how to pay your VAT bill.
What Happens If You Miss the VAT Deadline?
Submitting your VAT Return late and paying your VAT late are treated separately by HMRC.
Late VAT Returns use a points-based penalty system. You'll usually receive a penalty point each time you miss a submission deadline, with a £200 penalty once you reach the relevant points threshold.
If you pay your VAT late, late payment interest starts from the first day the payment is overdue. Late payment penalties can also apply if the amount remains unpaid for more than 15 days.
We've explained the rules in more detail, including how the penalty points and late payment penalties work, in our guide to what happens if you miss the VAT deadline.
Need Help With Your VAT?
Keeping on top of VAT deadlines and making sure your returns are accurate can take time, particularly as your business grows.
Our VAT accountants can help with VAT registration, returns and ongoing compliance, making sure you understand what needs to be submitted and when.
Get in touch with Ryans to discuss your VAT requirements.
FAQ's
What Happens If My VAT Deadline Falls on a Weekend or Bank Holiday?
Your VAT payment still needs to reach HMRC by the deadline. If your payment method could be affected by a weekend or bank holiday, you'll need to make the payment early enough for it to clear on time.
Contact UsCan I Pay My VAT Bill Before the Deadline?
Yes. You don't have to wait until the payment deadline to pay your VAT bill. Paying earlier can also give you more time to resolve any payment issues before the amount becomes overdue.
Contact UsAre VAT Return and Payment Deadlines the Same?
Usually, yes. For businesses using standard VAT accounting periods, the deadline for submitting your VAT Return and paying the VAT you owe is normally one calendar month and seven days after the end of the accounting period. Different arrangements apply to some schemes, including the Annual Accounting Scheme.
Contact UsWhat Should I Do If I Can't Pay My VAT Bill on Time?
If you can't pay your VAT bill by the deadline, you should contact HMRC as soon as possible. You may be able to agree a Time to Pay arrangement, which allows you to pay what you owe in instalments. Whether you're eligible will depend on your circumstances.
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