VAT Notices and Toolkits

VAT overview
VAT Notice 700
VAT Notice 700/21
VAT Notice 700/12
VAT Notice 703
VAT Notice 726
VAT Input Tax Toolkit

VAT Overview

The GOV.UK VAT Overview provides a general introduction to Value Added Tax and explains when businesses may need to register, charge VAT, submit returns and maintain records. It acts as a useful starting point for understanding the UK’s VAT system and links to more detailed guidance covering specific VAT obligations and procedures.

VAT Notice 700

VAT Notice 700 is HMRC’s main guide to VAT. It explains the fundamental principles of VAT, including registration requirements, charging VAT, issuing invoices, record keeping and submitting VAT Returns. Businesses can use this guidance to understand how VAT applies to their activities and the responsibilities that come with VAT registration.

VAT Notice 700/21

VAT Notice 700/21 explains VAT record-keeping requirements and the evidence businesses should retain to support their VAT position. Maintaining accurate records is an important part of VAT compliance and helps businesses demonstrate that VAT returns, repayment claims and other submissions are supported by appropriate documentation.

VAT Notice 700/12

VAT Notice 700/12 provides guidance on completing and submitting VAT Returns. It explains the information that should be reported, how VAT liabilities and recoverable VAT should be recorded, and the responsibilities businesses have when preparing and filing VAT returns with HMRC.

VAT Notice 703

VAT Notice 703 covers the VAT treatment of exported goods. It explains the evidence required to support zero-rating, the documentation businesses should retain and the conditions that must be met when goods are exported outside the United Kingdom. Businesses involved in international trade should ensure that appropriate export evidence is obtained and retained.

VAT Notice 726

VAT Notice 726 explains the Joint and Several Liability rules that may apply where VAT fraud is present within a supply chain. The notice highlights the importance of carrying out appropriate due diligence and explains circumstances in which a business may become jointly liable for unpaid VAT associated with fraudulent transactions.

VAT Input Tax Toolkit

The VAT Input Tax Toolkit helps businesses identify common errors that arise when recovering input tax. It provides practical guidance on reviewing VAT procedures, assessing supporting evidence and ensuring that VAT recovery claims are supported by appropriate records. The toolkit can assist businesses in strengthening compliance and reducing the risk of mistakes in VAT returns.