From 1st April 2012, all VAT Registered businesses are required to submit their VAT returns online and pay any VAT due electronically. If you currently prepare your own VAT Returns and submit a paper copy to HMRC this will no longer be acceptable.

The first step to submitting your VAT Return online is to sign up for VAT online services; this can be done on HMRC’s website at www.hmrc.gov.uk

When you submit your VAT Returns online, you must also pay any VAT due electronically. Paying electronically will normally give you to up to seven extra calendar days to submit your return and pay your VAT, unless you make annual returns or payments on account. The extended due date will be shown on your online return and you must ensure that cleared funds reach HMRC’s bank account by this date. If your payment clears later than this, you may be liable to a surcharge for late payment.

You can pay your VAT in a number of ways including Direct Debit, online and telephone banking. You can also pay by cheque at a bank or building society using a Bank Giro paying-in slip which can be obtained from HMRC.