My vat return start date is correct but the end date a month out, being it should be 31/01/26. The settings look all correct. How can I correct it?

Hi there, Thompson. Yes, the HMRC connection error can cause the end date mismatch. If the connection breaks, QuickBooks Online (QBO) displays outdated or incorrect period dates because it can't pull fresh data from HMRC.

The message "We can't connect to HMRC right now, take action" means QBO has lost its authorization to communicate with HMRC's MTD system. This is usually due to the HMRC connection timing out, being revoked, or needing re-authentication. To resolve this, you will need to disconnect MTD in QBO and then reconnect it.

Here's how to disconnect:

1. Select the Gear icon, then go to Account and Settings
2. Open the Advanced tab and locate Making Tax Digital
3. Select Learn how to disconnect, then click Continue
4. Confirm by selecting Disconnect, then return to QuickBooks

After disconnecting, do not sign back in yet. First, log in to your business gateway and complete the verification. Then, sign back into MTD in QBO.

If you have follow-up questions, please don't hesitate to click the Reply button.