The CIOT has reported that HMRC are contacting stakeholders to alert them to a growing misconception about VAT return filing deadlines, which is increasingly resulting in late filings and late submission points or penalties.
The misconception is that where the VAT filing deadline (of one month and seven days following the return period) falls on a weekend or bank holiday, the deadline is extended until the next working day. No such rule exists, and the filing deadline remains one month and seven days after the return period in all cases. HMRC suspect that the incorrect advice is being provided by third party websites and AI search summaries.
The CIOT has performed internet searches to investigate the matter and note that there is similar incorrect guidance offered online that the payment date is similarly extended.
HMRC will discuss this matter in the upcoming edition of their Agent Update.
https://www.tax.org.uk/vat-returns-due-dates-for-submission
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