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Ultimate Guide to VAT Returns for Warrington Small Businesses

VAT (Value Added Tax) is a tax on the goods and services you sell. You only need to register if your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in a 12-month period (as of August 2025).

warrington business owner VAT registered

However, even if you're under the threshold, registering voluntarily may help your business look more established or recover VAT on your costs.


What Is a VAT Return?

A VAT return is a report you submit to HMRC (usually quarterly) showing:

  • How much VAT you've charged customers (output tax)

  • How much VAT you've paid on business expenses (input tax)

  • The difference — which you either pay to HMRC or reclaim


Returns are submitted digitally through Making Tax Digital (MTD) software like Xero.


Who Needs to Submit VAT Returns?

You need to file VAT returns if:

  • You're registered for VAT (compulsory or voluntary)

  • You run a limited company or are a sole trader

  • You sell taxable goods or services in the UK


Even if you haven’t made any VAT-able sales in a quarter, you must submit a nil return — or face penalties.


How Often Do I File a VAT Return?

In most cases, small businesses file quarterly VAT returns. Your VAT periods are set by HMRC when you register.


You can also apply for:

  • Annual accounting scheme (one return a year with advance payments)

  • Flat Rate Scheme (simplified calculation based on turnover)


At Purple Accounts, we help Warrington businesses choose the right VAT scheme for their cash flow and specific business needs.


What If I Get My VAT Return Wrong?

Common VAT mistakes include:

  • Missing deadlines

  • Claiming VAT on non-allowable expenses

  • Forgetting to file nil returns

  • Using the wrong VAT code in your software


HMRC penalties can be costly — but the real danger is repeated errors triggering an enquiry.


This is why most of our clients prefer to have us handle it for them.


Can Purple Accounts Help Me With VAT Returns in Warrington?

Yes — this is one of our core services. We help Warrington-based business owners with:

  • VAT registration

  • Advice on the best VAT scheme for your business

  • Bookkeeping and MTD-compliant software setup

  • Quarterly VAT return filing

  • Liaising with HMRC if needed


All done with a personal, plain-English approach.


We’re based in Stockton Heath, Warrington and support small businesses across Warrington and across the UK.


What Are the Deadlines for VAT Returns?

  • Filing deadline: 1 month and 7 days after the end of your VAT period

  • Payment deadline: Same as the filing deadline


For example, if your VAT quarter ends on 30 June, you must file and pay by 7 August.


Speak to us today no matter what your situation is or if you are concerned about VAT.


What If I'm Not Sure Whether I Should Register?

You're not alone. Many Warrington businesses wait too long or register too early. That’s why we offer a free initial consultation.


We’ll assess:

  • Whether you're over the threshold

  • Which scheme could be right for you


This will be fully reviewed once you onboard as a client.


Summary: 5 Things Every Warrington Business Owner Should Know About VAT

  1. You must register for VAT if your turnover is over £90,000 (as at August 2025 - check with for latest rates or the HMRC website.

  2. VAT returns are due every quarter unless you're on a special scheme

  3. Mistakes can be costly — nil returns still count

  4. You need MTD-compatible software to stay compliant

  5. You can outsource VAT returns entirely to Purple Accounts


Need Help With VAT Returns in Warrington?

We make VAT simple, compliant and stress-free — so you can focus on growing your business.

Chartered Management Accountants

Based in Stockton Heath, Warrington

VAT returns, registration, bookkeeping & support

Most 5* rated by local business owners


Contact us now →

01925 979500 or email:enquiries@purpleaccounts.com

 
 
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