Backdated VAT

[meridian]

I was simply suggesting there is not a can of worms being opened for him IF they pay the backdated VAT.

And really, what harm is it actually causing other contractors assuming they DO ask for the cert up front (every agency I've worked through have done this)?

Then you've missed the nuance of the OP's previous posts - the agency is stating that they will not pay the VAT on invoices received, despite the OP being registered and entitled to charge VAT.

The harm caused is that it is likely that they are also doing this to other contractors, some of whom will simply roll over and accept it and therefore may fall foul of HMRC if they are investigated, for not declaring all income in their VAT return.

[LondonManc]

Not sure you're why your quoting me on that?

Don't take offence, I was just clicking on the Reply button and wasn't scrolled down enough to remember the other one is the basic reply button

[fidot]

It's just an excuse

If they really wanted to check the VAT number, they would use a service like VIES

[SueEllen]

If they really wanted to check the VAT number, they would use a service like VIES

No because a photocopy of a VAT certificate is clearly more authentic....

[jmo21]

*disengage smug mode*

[gary3306]

This suggests they ARE going to pay it once the copy of the VAT cert is received.

No! They aren't going to. She used the phrase 'not up for discussion' and said that their local VAT office had told them they didn't have to pay VAT if they hadn't seen the certificate. I rang the HMRC VAT helpline yesterday, and the advice was 'No, they cannot refuse to pay it'. I think I can kiss goodbye to getting work through this agency anymore lol.

[jmo21]

No! They aren't going to. She used the phrase 'not up for discussion' and said that their local VAT office had told them they didn't have to pay VAT if they hadn't seen the certificate. I rang the HMRC VAT helpline yesterday, and the advice was 'No, they cannot refuse to pay it'. I think I can kiss goodbye to getting work through this agency anymore lol.

fair enough

Did HRMC advise you what to do next?