FAQ’S
Below are just some of the more common questions we have had put to us. Please check back again, as we will continue to update this page as we deal with more queries.
Page last updated: March 2019
When does it start?
MTD for VAT commences for VAT periods starting on or after 1 April 2019. So if your VAT Quarters ended:-
VAT Quarters ended | March, June, September December | January, April, July, October | February, May, August, November |
Start Date | 1st April 2019 | 1st May 2019 | 1st June 2019 |
How do I know if it affects me and/or my business?
If you’re VAT registered and your turnover is above the current VAT Threshold of £85,000, then the new scheme will apply to your business.
What if my Turnover is below £85,000?
If your turnover is below £85,000, the new scheme does not apply to your business at present. However you could still choose to adopt and register for the new scheme voluntarily if you so wish.
So if I’m not in the new scheme, now what?
HMRC’s online VAT return will remain available only to those businesses.
Are the filing or payment deadlines for VAT changing?
No your filing and payment deadlines will remain the same.
What happens if I don’t act in time?
HMRC have announced that they will implement a soft-landing period of 12 months, however, digital links will be mandatory from April 2020.
Can I defer the starting date?
If you fall into one of the following categories, you may be able to apply for a six-month deferral
- ‘Not for profit’ organisations that are not companies (this includes some charities)
- Local authorities and public corporations
- Public sector entities that are required to provide additional information alongside their VAT return (such as Government departments and NHS Trusts)
- Traders based overseas
- Those required to make payments on account

This website has been written in general terms and we would always recommend that you obtain professional advice before acting or refraining from