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Set up InstantVAT refunds in QuickBooks

by Intuit• Updated 2 weeks ago

Learn how to access your VAT refunds in as little as 24 hours to improve your business cash flow and liquidity.

QuickBooks has partnered with Adsum to provide InstantVAT. This service accelerates your VAT refunds, helping you access your money significantly faster than the standard HMRC waiting period.


What is InstantVAT?

InstantVAT is an accelerated payment solution, not a traditional loan. It uses advanced tax infrastructure to streamline the VAT refund process.

  • Speed: Access your refund in as little as 24 hours after HMRC verification.
  • Time saved: Businesses save an average of 47 days per year waiting for funds from HMRC.
  • Liquidity: Use your funds immediately for business operations or meeting payment deadlines.

Because InstantVAT is an accelerated payment solution and not a loan, there are significant differences that benefit your business:

  • No credit impact: There is no credit application or footprint left on your credit file.
  • No restrictions: Unlike a traditional lender, there are no requirements placed on your assets or other borrowing abilities.

Set up InstantVAT in QuickBooks

  1. Go to All apps, and select Capital (Take me there).
  2. Select Check for Offers.
  3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the connection.

How it works

The process is simple and requires no change to how you currently submit your VAT return through QuickBooks.

  1. File as usual: You file your VAT return exactly as you normally would through QuickBooks.
  2. HMRC verification: HMRC reviews and verifies your return, which usually takes a few days.
  3. Instant payment: The moment HMRC verifies the refund, Adsum pays you instantly (minus a fee.) You don't have to wait for HMRC to complete their payment checks and processing.
  4. HMRC repays Adsum: Since Adsum is an authorised tax agent with HMRC, HMRC later sends the full refund directly to Adsum. 

Fees and usage

  • Adsum fee: Adsum charges a transaction fee of up to 1% of your total VAT refund. This is deducted automatically from the payout, so there are no out-of-pocket costs.
  • QuickBooks fee: QuickBooks does not charge an additional fee for this service.
  • Optional service: You can choose whether to use InstantVAT each time you file; it is never mandatory.

Is InstantVAT a loan? No. It is an "accelerated payment" of money you are already owed by HMRC. Because it isn't a loan, it doesn't affect your credit score.

Do I have to use it every time I file? No. InstantVAT is completely optional. You can choose to use it for one quarter and go back to standard HMRC payments the next.

What if HMRC changes my refund amount? Adsum’s system syncs with HMRC’s verification. You are paid based on the amount HMRC verifies, ensuring the figures are accurate.

Who is Adsum? Adsum is an authorised tax agent and QuickBooks partner that specialises in tax-based liquidity solutions.


Get support

If you have questions or need assistance with the InstantVAT service, please contact Adsum directly:

  • Email: help@adsum-works.com
  • Website: Visit the Adsum portal for more details.
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