19th June 2020
The Government gave businesses the option of deferring their VAT payments if they were unable to pay on time, as part of their support during Covid-19. Payment of VAT falling due between 20 March and 30 June 2020 can be deferred until 31 March 2021.
However, you must continue to file your VAT return on time, even if you defer payment.
Remember that the option to defer paying VAT ends on 30 June 2020. This means that VAT returns with a payment due date after 30 June must be paid in full, on time.
Reinstate Direct Debits
If you haven’t deferred any VAT payments, you don’t need to take any further action. If you have deferred paying your VAT and normally pay by Direct Debit you should now reinstate it.
You should do this at least three working days before submitting your VAT return in order for HMRC to take payment. The gov.uk website provides further information, just search for ‘Pay your VAT bill’.
31 March 2021
Remember, any VAT payments you have deferred during this period should be paid in full on or before 31 March 2021. You can make ad hoc payments or additional payments with your subsequent VAT returns to reduce the amount outstanding, if you wish.
For further advice or assistance contact a member of our team or head to our Coronavirus Hub.
