Tax planning & advice
Tax Planning for VAT-Registered Businesses
VAT affects more than your VAT return. This service helps you plan around VAT so you can choose the right scheme, time transactions sensibly, and keep records that stand up to HMRC checks, while protecting cash flow and reducing unpleasant surprises.
More information
What this service covers
You get practical VAT-aware tax planning focused on day-to-day decisions and reliable compliance.
- Review of your current VAT position, return results and common risk areas
- VAT scheme review and recommendations (for example Standard, Flat Rate, Cash Accounting, Annual Accounting)
- Timing guidance on invoicing, credit notes, prepayments and large purchases to manage cash flow
- Checks on VAT treatment of typical income and costs in your sector (including mixed supplies where relevant)
- Record-keeping improvements to support Making Tax Digital and reduce errors in returns
- A clear action plan you can follow, with priorities and deadlines
When this is most useful
This is a good fit if you are VAT-registered and any of the following apply:
- Your VAT payments feel unpredictable, or you are often caught short at the quarter end
- You are not sure if you are on the best VAT scheme for your turnover and cost base
- Your bookkeeping is broadly up to date, but you want confidence the VAT coding is correct
- You are growing, changing pricing, adding new services, or starting to sell in new ways
- You want fewer corrections, queries and last-minute scrambles before filing
How the service is delivered
- Initial fact find and data review: we look at your recent VAT returns, bookkeeping setup and the way you invoice and purchase.
- Planning and options: we model the impact of scheme choices and timing changes, then explain the trade-offs in plain English.
- Recommendations and implementation: you get a written plan and support to apply changes, such as scheme changes, process updates and VAT coding rules.
- Hand-over and controls: we agree simple checks to keep things consistent quarter to quarter.
What happens after the plan
VAT planning works best when it is reviewed as your business changes. If you want ongoing support, we can revisit your VAT position at agreed intervals, refine the approach, and keep your records and VAT returns aligned with how you actually operate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you help me choose the right VAT scheme?
Yes. We compare the likely outcome of suitable schemes based on your turnover, costs and how you bill customers. You get a clear recommendation and the practical steps to change scheme if needed.
Will VAT planning reduce the amount of VAT I pay?
Sometimes, but not always. The main aim is to ensure the correct VAT treatment, avoid overpaying through errors, and improve cash flow through better timing and processes. Where legitimate savings exist, we will highlight them.
Do you also handle VAT returns and Making Tax Digital submissions?
Yes, if you want an end-to-end service. We can prepare and submit VAT returns, and make sure your software and records support Making Tax Digital. Planning and compliance work best when joined up.
What information do you need from me to get started?
Typically your VAT number, recent VAT returns, access to your bookkeeping records, and details of how you invoice and buy. We may also ask about any unusual transactions or changes planned in the next 6 to 12 months.
How often should VAT planning be reviewed?
Review frequency depends on how stable your pricing, costs and sales channels are. Many businesses benefit from an annual review plus a check-in when something changes, such as a new service line or major purchase.
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