With extensive rules, principles, exemptions and exceptions shaped by over 50 years of case law, the VAT system has grown into a highly technical and often counter-intuitive area of tax. For many businesses, VAT can feel illogical and difficult to navigate, with small details capable of creating significant unexpected costs and risks.
Because of its complexity, VAT problems often go unnoticed until they have already caused financial loss or increased exposure to HMRC challenge. Identifying potential issues early usually makes them significantly easier and cheaper to resolve.
We support businesses in approaching VAT and indirect tax with clarity and confidence, helping them take control of their VAT position, reduce risk and identify opportunities.
Our team ensures your VAT position is well managed, aligned with your commercial goals, optimises cash flow, and reduces the risk of errors or HMRC disputes. By collaborating closely with colleagues across our wider advisory services, we provide coordinated, practical and commercially grounded VAT advice.
Academy schools have a special VAT status which can make their VAT position complex. We support academies with:
As charity VAT specialists we can provide VAT support on all aspects of:
As construction VAT specialists we can provide VAT support on all aspects of:
Financial services
VAT for businesses in the financial services sector can be extremely complex. We can provide support on:
HMRC checks and investigations
Compliance checks by HM Revenue & Customs can be daunting and worrying. Our team has years of experience managing these reviews from start to finish.
Early professional support is crucial, as issues can escalate if not managed correctly.
Our specialists include former HMRC staff, giving us deep insight into how HMRC approaches tax compliance checks.
If you have our Tax Investigation Service (TIS) cover, you will be protected from the costs of professional fees and benefit from our expert support throughout the process.
Where HMRC opens a compliance check, we manage the process proactively overseeing correspondence, preparing responses and working towards the best possible outcome.
Read more on Tax Investigations and how to get protected.
International VAT
Buying or selling goods or services cross borders can be complex particularly since Brexit, creating unexpected risk and overseas VAT obligations. We can provide support on all aspects of:
As a Kreston Global international network member, we are part of a global network of independent accounting firms across the globe helping our clients confidently trade internationally and stay compliant.
Land and Property
VAT related to land and buildings is one of the most complex areas of VAT. Given the significant values involved in property transactions this can create significant risks and exposure, so getting the VAT treatment right is crucial. We can provide VAT support on all aspects of:
M&A and Restructuring
Buying or selling a business requires careful consideration of VAT. Sellers need to be confident in their VAT compliance position and that there are no unknown liabilities which could impact the sale price, and buyers must conduct detailed checks to avoid unexpected liabilities. VAT treatment differs depending on how a deal is structured. We help with VAT due diligence, restructuring and reviewing VAT on transaction costs.
Partial Exemption
Businesses that make exempt supplies must apply partial exemption rules, which affect how much VAT they can recover. We help clients ensure calculations are correct and, where necessary, assist in agreeing alternative methods with HMRC.
Time to Pay Support
If a business cannot meet its VAT obligations, we help negotiate instalment plans with HMRC. Taking action early is key.
VAT Cashflow Optimisation
VAT planning can help improve cashflows, for example, by ensuring VAT recovery is maximised or by optimising time of supply (when VAT needs to be accounted for). We help businesses explore these opportunities.
VAT Grouping
VAT grouping can reduce irrecoverable VAT and simplify compliance. We can support in:
VAT reviews (‘health checks’)
A VAT review (or ‘VAT health check’) helps identify risks and opportunities. This can include:
We offer bespoke reviews of specific areas or a full “mock HMRC visit” or VAT business risk review.
VAT training
We offer bespoke training across all areas of VAT to suit diverse levels of understanding from introductory sessions for non-finance staff to detailed courses for specialists.
VAT does not have to be a source of uncertainty or risk. With the right advice and proactive oversight, businesses can manage VAT confidently, minimise exposure to costly errors and ensure their VAT position supports wider commercial objectives.
Whether you are dealing with a specific VAT challenge, preparing for an HMRC compliance check, or simply want reassurance that your VAT position is correct, our specialists are here to help.
If you would like to discuss your VAT position, explore opportunities to improve VAT recovery, or simply gain reassurance that everything is operating as it should, please get in touch with our VAT specialists.
CALL US 01325 349700
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