Process a VAT return

Run the VAT statement, settle VAT for the period, and (if enabled) submit your VAT return.

VAT returns are time-sensitive. You need clean figures and the right period.

Before you start

• Confirm your VAT period start/end dates.
• Make sure you have posted all sales and purchase documents for the period.
• Make sure your Allowed Posting Dates let you post settlement.

Step 1: Review the VAT statement

1. Search for VAT Statement.
2. Set the date range for the VAT period.
3. Run the statement.
4. Review the totals for input VAT and output VAT.

If you’re going live mid-quarter, see Opening VAT Balances and Initial VAT Return.

Step 2: Post the VAT settlement

1. Search for Calc. and Post VAT Settlement.
2. Set:

   • Starting Date and Ending Date for the VAT period.
   • Posting Date (normally the period end date).
   • Document No. (use your normal VAT settlement numbering convention).
3. Run the report.
4. Check the posting preview if you use Preview Posting.
5. Post.

Step 3: Re-check the VAT statement

1. Re-run the VAT Statement for the same period.
2. Confirm the settled VAT entries are no longer included.

Step 4: Submit the VAT return (if enabled)

Submission depends on your localisation and any Making Tax Digital (MTD) setup.

1. Search for VAT Returns.
2. Open the VAT return for the period.
3. Use Submit or Send (label depends on your setup).

UI labels for VAT return submission vary by country and installed extensions.

If you don’t see VAT Returns or submit actions, check with your admin.