Filing last VAT mid-quarter before de-registering

[ContractorBanking]

I'm looking to file a zero-VAT return before I go down the MVL route but my existing MTD software does not allow me to do so (appears it waiting for the quarter-end).

What I intend to do is file VAT online for mid-quarter and THEN de-register for VAT - is that the correct sequence of events?

I'm worried if I de-register for VAT first, I won't be able to then file the return.

Or is it the case that if I deregister first, the end-date may then be published for the MTD software to pick up?

Accountant is away today and the VAT helpline is taking forever, anyone know how best to handle this scenario?


thanks

[northernladuk]

Wait until tomorrow until your accountant is back?

[ladymuck]

Did you read the HMRC guidance on this? A 10 second google for the term "de-register for VAT" and a click on the first result...

https://www.gov.uk/vat-registration/cancel-registration

You cancel then you do a VAT return up to your cancellation date.

[Maslins]

You'd need to de-register for VAT first. Then give it a few working days to filter through HMRC's systems. Then you should be able to file the "final" VAT return, typically not for a full VAT quarter.

Is your "MTD software" FreeAgent? If so, change the VAT de-registration settings bit to align with de-registration date, then you should be able to submit the final VAT return directly from FreeAgent.

[JHamp82]

You need to de-register for VAT and then you will be able to submit a final return.

[ContractorBanking]

Thanks all. Spoke to my accountant and have started the deregistration process, just waiting for HMRC updates to filter through.