Stupid mistake when filing FRS VAT return

[Martin at NixonWilliams]

I would suggest correcting the incorrect return now rather than adjusting for it next time. The reason I say this is because by correcting it on the next return the box 5 figure will represent a lower percentage of the box 6 figure than what you are registered under for the flat rate scheme, which may flag up with HMRC (the original submission is less likely to flag up with HMRC as the percentage paid is higher than the trade sector you are registered under).

[BoredBloke]

HMRC website is notorious for being badly written and inaccurate.

However, the current guide to filling out your VAT return on the FRS *does* say to include your flat-rate turnover including VAT in box 6:

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

It also says this in VAT Notice 733.

Edit: unless you're talking about the actual form for filing your VAT return? I haven't used it for a while; FreeAgent does my VAT returns for me. Does it still say to enter excluding VAT even though you're on the FRS? Oh dear...they've had years to fix that.

As I said, last time I checked.....I just fill in the boxes from an Excel template

[TheCyclingProgrammer]

Wouldn't it be easier if they actually put correct instructions on the site also? It says to enter the amount without VAT - as far as I can recall it doesn't say unless you are on the FRS!! How hard would that be to add?

HMRC website is notorious for being badly written and inaccurate.

However, the current guide to filling out your VAT return on the FRS *does* say to include your flat-rate turnover including VAT in box 6:

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

It also says this in VAT Notice 733.

Edit: unless you're talking about the actual form for filing your VAT return? I haven't used it for a while; FreeAgent does my VAT returns for me. Does it still say to enter excluding VAT even though you're on the FRS? Oh dear...they've had years to fix that.

[BoredBloke]

Wouldn't it be easier if they actually put correct instructions on the site also? It says to enter the amount without VAT - as far as I can recall it doesn't say unless you are on the FRS!! How hard would that be to add?

[TheCyclingProgrammer]

Its not the biggest mistake in the world as like you say, it doesn't affect your liability, but it is the sort of error that could lead to an enquiry, especially if repeated. Just ring them and ask them what to do.

[cojak]

Hi all

I have filed numerous FRS VAT returns, but the last one I messed up.
I have put the FRS VAT amount due correctly, but in box 6 on the webpage I wrongly put the total turnover WITHOUT VAT. Which is OK is I were not in FRS.
For FRS I must input the turnover figure inclusive of VAT (gross) which I have done so may times.
This last time I dot it wrong somehow.

I gather that correcting your VAT return can be done in 2 ways: if the difference in the VAT due is less than £10 000, you just balance it in the next VAT return.
If more than 10000 you must notify HMRC.

In my case the VAT due is correct but the base it was calculated on is not. Do I need to inform HMRC for the mistake in box 6?

Call your VAT office first thing tomorrow.

They'll help you get back on track if you contact them straight away.

They will rip your throat out if you don't.

Firm but fair - that's the VAT man/woman.

[garnet]

Hi all

I have filed numerous FRS VAT returns, but the last one I messed up.
I have put the FRS VAT amount due correctly, but in box 6 on the webpage I wrongly put the total turnover WITHOUT VAT. Which is OK is I were not in FRS.
For FRS I must input the turnover figure inclusive of VAT (gross) which I have done so may times.
This last time I dot it wrong somehow.

I gather that correcting your VAT return can be done in 2 ways: if the difference in the VAT due is less than £10 000, you just balance it in the next VAT return.
If more than 10000 you must notify HMRC.

In my case the VAT due is correct but the base it was calculated on is not. Do I need to inform HMRC for the mistake in box 6?