Experts urge businesses to beware of latest VAT changes
Business owners registered for VAT are being reminded to make sure they file their returns and pay on time or face falling foul of new penalties introduced by HMRC.
VAT on energy saving materials
The zero rate of VAT has been extended to include the installation of additional energy-saving materials (ESMs) from 1 February 2024.
VAT registration threshold raised
Effective from 1 April 2024, the taxable turnover above which a business is required to register and account for VAT will be increased from £85,000 to £90,000.
VAT on land and buildings
When purchasing commercial premises you need to know whether VAT will be added to the price as the stamp duty land tax charge (or similar taxes in Wales or Scotland) is calculated on the VAT inclusive value.
VAT on work in pharmacies
From 1 May 2023 medical services can be VAT exempt if they are performed by a person who is not a registered health professional but who is directly supervised by a pharmacist.
Sales till manipulation
Traders who have used electronic sales suppression (ESS) software are in serious trouble as HMRC view this as tax fraud which is a criminal offence.