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Use QuickBooks bridging software to submit Making Tax Digital (MTD) VAT returns

by Intuit•8• Updated 3 weeks ago

If you manage your VAT in spreadsheets, you can stay MTD-compliant by using QuickBooks bridging software. It acts as a digital link between your Excel or CSV file and HMRC—helping you submit your VAT return directly from your spreadsheet.

Note: The bridging software currently supports Standard and Cash schemes only. MTD is only available for businesses whose home currency is GBP.

Before you begin

Make sure you’ve done the following before submitting your VAT return:

Watch the video below for a complete guide on setting up MTD for VAT in QuickBooks and using bridging software for digital VAT return submissions.


Submit a VAT return using the bridging software

  1. Go to Taxes, and then select VAT (Take me there).
  2. Select the Returns tab.
  3. Find the open VAT return and select the ▼ dropdown under Action.
  4. Select Submit with a spreadsheet.
  5. Upload your Excel or CSV file, and select Next.
  6. Using the dropdown, select the sheet with a summary of all 9 boxes.
  7. Identify and select the cell for Box 1—QuickBooks will automatically map the remaining boxes.
  8. Back in QuickBooks, map your spreadsheet to the 9 boxes. Map the first cell (Box 1) and we’ll do the rest for you.
  9. Review your VAT return.
  10. When you’re ready submit, tick the declaration box.
  11. Select Submit to HMRC, then Done.

Once you submit your VAT return, you'll immediately receive a confirmation message in QuickBooks containing a receipt number. A confirmation email will then follow, though this may take a few hours to arrive. Finally, remember to match any recorded VAT payments or refunds with your corresponding bank transactions to ensure your QuickBooks records remain accurate and balanced.


Troubleshooting tips

Here are some steps you can take if you're having trouble submitting a return through the bridging solution.

Important: Be sure to use the right VAT codes for your transactions. Here's a full list of all the VAT codes and rates available in QuickBooks.
  • Negative values in Boxes 8 or 9 will be rejected by HMRC. Double-check your spreadsheet to ensure all values are positive.
  • Ensure you’re using valid VAT codes. View all VAT codes and rates.

If you see a “Take action” error or QuickBooks is pulling in incorrect VAT periods (e.g. due to previous third-party submissions), you may need to align QuickBooks with HMRC’s expected start date using a 1-day filing.

To complete a 1-day filing, you need to turn off MTD:

  1. Go to Taxes, then VAT.
  2. Select Edit VAT, then Edit settings.
  3. Toggle MTD off, then save.
  4. Confirm the correct return start date by checking your HMRC Government Gateway (e.g. 1st January 2025)
  5. In QuickBooks, go to the open VAT return and select Prepare return.
  6. Set the end date to the day before the expected start date (e.g. 31st December 2024).
  7. Mark the return as filed.
  8. Turn MTD back on—QuickBooks will now align with HMRC and open the correct return.
  • Make sure your books are open in QuickBooks. If they're closed, you won't be able to make changes or submit a return. If your books are closed, go to Account and settings > Advanced > Accounting, and turn off Close the books.
  • If you’re using the Flat Rate Scheme (FRS), you’ll need to temporarily disable it in VAT settings before submitting. Go to VAT settings, and untick the FRS option before submitting. Don’t forget to re-enable it after. Learn how to turn off the Flat Rate Scheme.

If you're having trouble filing your VAT return and need to make an urgent submission, try these options:

  1. Make adjustments in the appropriate boxes on your return.
  2. Enter the transactions for the period with the gross sales along with the necessary VAT code. 

What is bridging software?

It’s a recognised HMRC solution that lets you submit MTD VAT returns by uploading spreadsheet data. It creates a digital link between your spreadsheet and HMRC.

Can I edit my return in QuickBooks before submitting?

No. HMRC requires a digital link. Edit your spreadsheet if changes are needed before uploading.

What is a 1-day filing and when should I do it?

If you see a “Take action” error or QuickBooks is pulling in incorrect VAT periods (e.g. due to previous third-party submissions), you may need to align QuickBooks with HMRC’s expected start date using a 1-day filing.

How does it work with MTD for VAT?

Upload the values for Boxes 1–9 from your spreadsheet. QuickBooks digitally sends them to HMRC. No manual re-entry required.

What is a digital link?

A digital link is an automated connection between systems—no copying and pasting allowed. Learn more on the HMRC website.

Does bridging convert data into QuickBooks?

No. It imports the 9 box values only for submission. Use the CSV import feature if you want to bring in full transaction data.

Can I use the bridging software without a QuickBooks subscription?

No, our bridging software is exclusively available to QuickBooks subscribers and is included within the cost of your subscription at no extra charge.

Can I use it without an accountant?

Yes, it’s designed for both accountants and business owners to use independently.

Can I use this for other tax submissions like Corporation Tax?

No. The bridging software is only for VAT returns under MTD.


More help

If you have a question about MTD, post a question on our Community and start a discussion with an expert.

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