Article

Common VAT Return Problems That the Pros Will Help Solve

Written by Dynamic Project Advisory Ltd

Topic: General Self HelpPublished July 22, 2019
No ratings yet321 viewsSign in to rate

Issues with VAT are quite common, either because of certain specific complications that every business has to deal with or because the businesses in question do not have the appropriate mechanism in place.

Besides, crisis regarding the cash flow can also surface up, when businesses fail to preserve enough fund for paying the VAT bills. This is where the professionals would come in handy, in helping them to tackle these issues.

Here are some primary VAT return problems that people have to deal with the help of the professionals of reputed accounting companies in the UK.

Supplies for no-business or personal use

This applies in the following scenarios:

  • If services or goods are bought in for business as well as for non-business use at the same time, then the input VAT will be applicable only on the business element recovered
  • Alte atively, VAT returns will be applicable on the purchase of the entire consignment of goods, provided the output VAT is declared on self-supply of any non-business element.

Free Accommodation to the Employees

It is another area of vat return in London, whichraises a lot of confusion, and demands the intervention of the professionals. Generally, one cannot reclaim input VAT, unless the employees are provided with domestic accommodation entirely for business and the HMRC agreement is obtained.

Meals at Work for the Sole Traders, Directors and Partners

Businesses cannot reclaim VAT on meals for their employees at work, though they can claim subsistence expenses that are incurred during business trips.

Entertainment Expenses for the third Parties

  • VAT on business entertainment for the 3rdparties (for instance the suppliers and customers) cannot be reclaimed
  • However, VAT related to the entertainment of the staff can be allowed, provided the entertainment has a disce ible business purpose.

In case of entertainment expenses incurred for the employees as well as for the outsiders, a part of the VAT can be reclaimed and this is where the intervention of a professional VAT return expert in London can come in handy.

Treatment of Output VAT in Special Cases

Business Gifts

Output VAT is generally applied to the full value of the business gifts. However, there are certain exceptions, like free samples offered to the customers, gifts that cost less than £50, the gift of services, or goods meant for charity.

Taking Stuff for Personal Use

In case no cost is paid, VAT is applied to the price (usually the market cost), treating it as a sale. However, when it comes to cars and fuels, special rules apply.

Well, there are a number of other pain areas regarding VAT return in the UK. It is for the professionals who would take care of the issues and guide their customers properly.

Why MUST you be careful with the VAT return?

The main reason for hiring professionalVAT return specialists in Oxford Circus is that any mistake in this regard will attract huge penalties and surcharges.

Failure to pay or submit VAT return will carry a fixed surcharge of up to 15 per cent, depending upon the number of times the payer of VAT defaults within a period of 12 months.

That is why it is always important to put your money on a reputed accounting company with years of experience under its belt.

Article author

About the Author

The author is a professional accountant who is a VAT return specialist in Oxford Circus, London. The author is also a regular blogger.

Further reading

Further Reading

4 total

Article

Keeping properties and schools clean is very important in Port Melbourne. Clean spaces help people feel safe, healthy, and comfortable. Whether it is a home for sale, a rental property, or a busy school full of students, the right cleaning care makes a big difference. This is why many people choose professional real estate cleaning Port Melbourne services and trusted School Cleaning Port Melbourne teams to make sure every area looks fresh and welcoming. When a property is bei

January 25, 2026

Article

Construction sites are high-risk environments. Open flames, electrical work, welding, flammable materials, and temporary power setups all increase the likelihood of fire-related incidents. Even a small oversight can lead to major losses, including injuries, property damage, legal penalties, and project delays. This is why having a structured fire prevention plan is no longer optional for construction projects of any size. One of the most effective ways to reduce fire risk on

January 23, 2026

Article

Introduction In a world where inequality, poverty, and social challenges continue to affect millions, organizations driven by compassion and community service play a crucial role in uplifting vulnerable populations. One such organization making a significant impact in Indonesia is Yayasan Sosial Harapan Indonesia — a social foundation dedicated to spreading hope, providing support, and empowering communities in need. With a clear mission to foster sustainable change and pro

December 19, 2025

Article

As Singapore prepares to welcome another exciting year, fashion-forward individuals and groups are turning to custom t shirt printing Singapore services to create memorable celebration attire. This year's trending prints combine festive spirit with contemporary style, making t shirt customization the perfect way to ring in the new year with flair. Metallic and Glitter Accents Take Center Stage Shimmering metallic prints dominate this year's New Year fashion scene. Gold, silve

December 16, 2025