VAT returns - box6: sum of Sales invoices or payments?

[Lumiere]

I use Cash Accounting Scheme, it is safer and easier to manage, can't see any reason why not

[krytonsheep]

I use the invoice date.

WHS. Use the invoice date, unless you're on the Cash Accounting Scheme for VAT.
From HMRC...
"Using standard VAT accounting, you pay VAT on your sales whether or not your customer has paid you. Using cash accounting, you do not need to pay VAT until your customer has paid you. If your customer never pays you, you never have to pay the VAT"
HM Revenue & Customs: Cash Accounting Scheme for VAT

[Scrag Meister]

I'm on flat rate scheme.
When i calculate my VAT return, what should i put into the box 6: the sum of the received payments for the period or the sum of the invoices i've raised or whatever was raised first?

I use the invoice date. If the invoice date falls in the VAT period then it goes on that return.

Not usually a problem as I am generally paid within a week of invoicing, although I could see it not being ideal if your agent pays on 30 day terms or similar.

[Punter]

I'm on flat rate scheme.
When i calculate my VAT return, what should i put into the box 6: the sum of the received payments for the period or the sum of the invoices i've raised or whatever was raised first?

You can do either, as long as you're consistent, in fact there's a third way, see below. I use the date payment is received, as it often means the VAT due for that month falls into the next quarter.

From: HM Revenue & Customs: Flat Rate Scheme: how to complete your VAT Return box-by-box

There are three ways that you can calculate your flat rate turnover:

Basic turnover. This is the VAT inclusive total of the sales and supplies you've made in the VAT period.

Cash-based turnover. This is the VAT inclusive sales and supplies you've been paid for in the VAT period.

Retailer's turnover. The retailer's turnover method is based on your daily takings. You make a record of payments as you receive them and total the takings every day. To work out the flat rate turnover you add your takings to any other income you receive.

[Goggy]

I'm on flat rate scheme.
When i calculate my VAT return, what should i put into the box 6: the sum of the received payments for the period or the sum of the invoices i've raised or whatever was raised first?