Set up and submit your VAT return

Submit your VAT returns online with QuickBooks and stay compliant with HMRC’s Making Tax Digital rules. You can prepare, track and file VAT returns - all in one place. Plus, catch common mistakes with our unique VAT error checker. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Navigate to Taxes


  • In the left hand menu, select Taxes.
  • Then select VAT from the options.
  • Select, Set up VAT.

2. Set up VAT


  • Select the Month you need to start calculating VAT from


  • Select the Frequency for which you need to submit your VAT return


  • Select the VAT accounting scheme you use, standard or cash.


  • Enter your 9-digit VAT registration number.


  • If applicable, select the Flat Rate Scheme (FRS) checkbox, then enter the percentage and registration date.


  • Select Next, then select OK.


3. Authorise QuickBooks to interact with HMRC

  • Select the Gear icon in the top right hand corner.


  • Select Account and Settings from the menu.


  • Select Advanced from the left hand menu.


  • Select the Making Tax Digital header to expand the section. Select Learn how to connect. You’ll be redirected to the Set up Making Tax Digital for VAT page, select Authorise now.


  • You'll be redirected to the HMRC page. Select Continue to sign in.


  • Enter your HMRC credentials to sign in.


  • Once logged in, select Grant authority to continue. The authorisation process will begin.


  • Once the authorisation has been given, you will receive a ‘You're connected to HMRC’ message. Select Continue.


  • When the process has been completed, select Take a look.


  • Once you’ve authorised QuickBooks to interact with HMRC you’re now ready to submit VAT using MTD.

Note: Now that your QuickBooks is authorised to interact with HMRC, you will need to reauthorise QuickBooks every 18 months based on HMRC's guidelines.

4. Submit VAT using MTD


  • In the left hand menu select Taxes.


  • Select Prepare return.


  • Check the figures for each box. When you are ready to submit your VAT Return, select Submit to HMRC.


  • On the next page, select the I declare the information is true and complete the box, followed by Submit to HMRC.


  • While the submission is taking place, you'll be shown a ‘Connect to HMRC’ page. Do not close this page until the receipt confirmation message has been received.


  • Once your submission has been completed, you'll receive a message. Select Done to close the window.

Note: Once the return has been submitted to HMRC you'll receive an email confirmation containing a receipt number along with information of your return.


Once you've completed this step, congratulations — you're all done until your next VAT submission. Remember that you'll need to reauthorise QuickBooks every 18 months as per HMRCs guidelines.

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