
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:
- Set up VAT in QuickBooks
- Enable Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT
- Prepare your Excel or CSV spreadsheet with the values for Boxes 1–9 of your VAT return
- You’ll also need to know which cell contains the value for Box 1—QuickBooks will use this to map the rest automatically.
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
- Go to Taxes, and then select VAT (Take me there).
- Select the Returns tab.
- Find the open VAT return and select the ▼ dropdown under Action.
- Select Submit with a spreadsheet.
- Upload your Excel or CSV file, and select Next.
- Using the dropdown, select the sheet with a summary of all 9 boxes.
- Identify and select the cell for Box 1—QuickBooks will automatically map the remaining boxes.
- Back in QuickBooks, map your spreadsheet to the 9 boxes. Map the first cell (Box 1) and we’ll do the rest for you.
- Review your VAT return.
- When you’re ready submit, tick the declaration box.
- 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. |
More help
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