
Edit, deactivate, or update VAT rates in QuickBooks
by Intuit•10• Updated 4 days ago
Learn how to manage VAT rates and tax agency settings in QuickBooks Online—whether you’re on the web or using the QuickBooks mobile app.
Before you begin
When you edit a VAT rate, the changes apply only to new transactions going forward. Here’s what else to expect:
- Past transactions will not update automatically—you’ll need to edit them manually.
- If you enter a new transaction with a backdated date, it will still use the new rate.
- The earlier rate becomes inactive and can’t be reused.
- Reports may show both the old and new rates for overlapping periods.
- Recurring templates will use the new rate going forward—but you must update the template manually.
Add a new VAT rate
You can add a VAT rate using the QuickBooks web app or mobile app.
Edit a VAT rate
You can change the name or rate of a custom VAT rate, but not QuickBooks default rates.
Update a custom VAT rate
If you’ve created a custom VAT rate and need to make changes to it—such as adjusting the percentage or making it inactive—use the steps below. These changes will only apply to new transactions going forward.
Deactivate a VAT rate
QuickBooks Online doesn’t allow you to delete VAT rates, but you can make them inactive. This is useful for rates you no longer use, but keep in mind that inactive rates cannot be reactivated.
Change a VAT rate in a transaction
You can also add or edit a VAT rate directly from an invoice, estimate, or sales receipt.
Rename a tax agency
You can only rename custom tax agencies created by you. The new name will show in the Sales Tax Centre, but sales forms will still display the original name. If you want a different name to appear on forms, you’ll need to create a new agency.
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