VAT submission error

[zamzummim]

Hi, wonder if anyone can help, was about to submit the VAT for this last period, but when I revised my previous period calculation I realised I made an error in the spreadsheet, and the sum ommitted one of the months what is the best way to correct this, should I add the missing month's VAT to this period? Or should I call HMRC and explain what happened?

[Zippy]

I'd call HMRC and ask their advice. You made an honest mistake and they should be able to help.

[FarmerPalmer]

straight from the horses mouth:

HM Revenue & Customs: What to do if you made a mistake on an earlier VAT Return

[craig1]

In my experience, the VAT people are surprisingly helpful and will turn a blind eye to small businesses making honest mistakes that are admitted as soon as they're known. I messed up a VAT return in 2007 that under-reported by nearly £3000, sheer carelessness by me, I called them and I had a very helpful guy spend about an hour on the phone with me talking me through how to ensure that my Sage package gave me the right figures next time. No fine, just a stern warning that it was now on my record and it increased my chances of a VAT audit.

That said, that opinion comes from dealing with them over the last decade but not really since the current government gained power, I know a few people who are grumbling that lately the VAT people are under pressure to push for fines and are being very intolerant.

[BolshieBastard]

Any error of up to 2 grand (I think) can be corrected on the next return. Over that and you'd better speak to them asap.

[Craig@Clarity]

If your error is less than £10k, you can simply make the adjustment to correct it on this VAT return.