VAT online filing exemptions

VAT online filing exemptions

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In regard to HMRC's brief sent around today, what's your opinion on the exemption for those who satisfy HMRC that it is not 'reasonably practicable' for them to file online but by phone or paper instead?

Will it benefit you or your clients?

Replies (4)

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By mrme89
29th Jul 2014 16:22

I can't see it benefiting agents in the slightest.

 

I think this is aimed at people with limited computer ability or live in remote areas where internet is not readily available.

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Stepurhan
By stepurhan
29th Jul 2014 16:44

DIY only

I very much doubt HMRC are going to accept any firm of accountants in the modern age is incapable of submitting returns online. It is only the DIY people who are going to be able to use this argument as it stands.

I await the first case challenging a penalty levied for late filing after this. If a business can show that, for a brief period, it was not "reasonably practicable" to file online (e.g. broadband outage. I had one that lasted 3 days recently, though at home not the office) they should be allowed the exemption.

I can see why they are trying to limit it. They fear hordes will return to paper filing and the additional admin that creates. I just can't help thinking they are storing up a world of trouble by a practice that could be viewed as discriminatory.

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By carnmores
29th Jul 2014 19:52

we act as agents
Not principals, I wonder what the courts will make of that !

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James Reeves
By James Reeves
30th Jul 2014 02:26

Lateral thinking by HMRC.

These luddites will ring the VAT line.

They'll spend 3 minutes listening to an automated message explaining how much easier it is to file online and remorselessly spelling out obfuscated URL's.

Next comes the Maze of Insanity that is the HMRC voice recognition system.  Here they'll be looped back to the main menu at least 3 times, complete with repetition of the automated message. Finally they'll get to the option to file a VAT return by telephone:

"I'm sorry, all our operatives are busy at the moment dealing with customers. Your call is important to us. Please try again later."  and the line will go dead.

The really brave ones will persevere until they get to speak to a real human being. Sadly, this human being will be unable to help them, because his screen has frozen and he is unable to access their records. Sorry, but can they call back in the morning when hopefully all the systems will be back online.

The fanatics will be back again and will eventually get through to the very helpful Geoff who files their return.

Six weeks later they get a surcharge liability notice (in the post naturally). Their VAT account is sitting in credit as the cheque cleared with no problems, but unfortunately Geoff typed the VAT number incorrectly so the return is late.

Filing their VAT online will start to sound pretty good after that.

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