Glossary · 2026/27

What is a VAT return?

A VAT return reports the VAT a business has charged and the VAT it has paid over a period, usually a quarter, and the difference is paid to or reclaimed from HMRC. For 2026/27 a return and payment are normally due one calendar month and seven days after the end of the period. Registration is compulsory once taxable turnover passes £90,000 in a rolling 12 months.

Returns are submitted through Making Tax Digital-compatible software. Nella dates each quarter from the months the business tells it its quarters end, and shows the dates alongside the cash position; it does not file the return.

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FAQ

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When is a VAT return due?
Usually one calendar month and seven days after the end of the VAT period, with payment due by the same date. Source: GOV.UK.