--- title: "VAT Returns in Cardiff & South Wales | Luminaire Accounts" description: "VAT returns prepared and submitted to HMRC with clear figures, record checks and deadline reminders, so you stay compliant and in control." canonical: "https://hlsaccounting.co.uk/services/vat-returns" --- VAT Services # VAT Returns We take care of your VAT returns so you don't have to worry about HMRC deadlines or missed deductions. Serving small businesses across Cardiff and South Wales with accurate, on-time filing and clear advice you can actually use. [Book a free consultation](https://calendly.com/hlsaccounting/new-client-meeting) 10 Years experience 400+ VAT returns filed 100% On-time submissions ![Accountant at a desk reviewing receipts and invoices, using a calculator and laptop in a tidy office setting.](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fmedia%2Ffile%2Faccountant_tax_prep_realistic_studio.jpg%3Fv%3D1773064219131&w=1536&q=75&dpl=dpl_DEc4fGhEc1SCRZZutzoEsRuDy1CJ) ## Everything under VAT Returns Whether you're newly VAT-registered or managing multiple schemes, we handle every aspect of your VAT compliance with accuracy and care. ### Making Tax Digital (MTD) Setup We'll configure your MTD-compatible software and get you ready to file digitally, meeting HMRC's requirements. ### Flat Rate VAT Scheme Simplified VAT calculations for smaller businesses, helping you decide if it's the right fit and managing it ongoing. ### VAT Scheme Changes Switching between standard, flat rate, or cash accounting schemes as your business grows or your needs change. ### VAT Reclaims and Refunds Maximising your input VAT claims and ensuring you get refunds quickly with proper documentation and evidence. ## How we handle your VAT returns VAT returns can feel like a puzzle when you're trying to run a business. You're keeping track of sales, purchases, invoices, and receipts, all while wondering if you've coded everything correctly or missed a deduction. We take that weight off your shoulders. Our team prepares and submits your VAT returns accurately and on time, using Making Tax Digital-compatible software that keeps HMRC happy and your records audit-ready. We work with sole traders, shop owners, salon managers, tradespeople, and small professional firms across Cardiff and the Vale who need reliable VAT support without the jargon. Whether you file quarterly, monthly, or annually, we'll check every transaction, reconcile your accounts, and make sure your return reflects the true picture of your VAT position. > We've never missed a deadline, and we don't plan to start now. More information Our process is straightforward. You send us your sales and purchase records, we review and code each transaction to ensure standard-rated, zero-rated, and exempt items are handled correctly, then we calculate your net VAT position and file directly with HMRC. If you're owed a refund, we'll make sure the claim is backed by solid documentation so it reaches your account within 30 days. If you owe VAT, we'll let you know the amount and deadline well in advance. Many of our clients come to us after struggling with VAT coding in their own software or receiving unexpected penalties for late filing. **Clean VAT records from the start make everything easier.** We'll spot errors before they become problems, explain why certain expenses qualify for input VAT and others don't, and keep you informed if HMRC changes the rules. ### What's included in our VAT return service - Full transaction review and VAT coding in MTD-compatible software - Quarterly, monthly, or annual return preparation and submission - Reconciliation of output VAT (tax you've charged) and input VAT (tax you've paid) - Refund claims with supporting documentation - Deadline reminders and advance notice of amounts due - Advice on VAT scheme eligibility (standard, flat rate, cash accounting) - Records retention support to meet HMRC requirements We serve businesses throughout Cardiff, Barry, Penarth, Pontypridd, and the surrounding South Wales area. If you're a retailer in the city centre, a tradesperson working across the Vale, or a salon owner in Canton, we understand the local business landscape and the pressures you're under. Our clients range from newly VAT-registered sole traders to growing SMEs managing multiple income streams, and we tailor our service to fit your setup. ### Common concerns we address **"I'm not sure I've coded my transactions correctly."** We audit your coding and fix mistakes before they reach HMRC, so your return is accurate from the start. **"I don't know if I'm claiming all the VAT I'm entitled to."** We review your purchases line by line to maximise legitimate input VAT claims and avoid leaving money on the table. **"I'm worried about a VAT investigation."** Clean, well-documented records are your best defence. We make sure yours meet HMRC standards and can be evidenced if needed. If you've recently crossed the £85,000 registration threshold, we'll guide you through your first return and explain what changes. If you're considering switching to the Flat Rate Scheme to simplify your calculations, we'll run the numbers and show you whether it saves you time and money. And if you've received a letter from HMRC querying a previous return, we'll help you respond with the right evidence and explanations. > Your VAT records should work for you, not against you. VAT doesn't have to be stressful. With the right support, it becomes a manageable part of your monthly or quarterly routine rather than a last-minute scramble. We're here to make sure your returns are filed on time, your claims are maximised, and your records stand up to scrutiny. Let's get your VAT sorted. ### Ready to talk? Book a free consultation and we'll come back to you within one working day to discuss your VAT situation. [Book a free consultation](https://calendly.com/hlsaccounting/new-client-meeting) ### While you're here - [Partial Exemption VAT Advice](/services/partial-exemption-vat-advice)→ - [VAT Health Checks](/services/vat-health-checks)→ - [International VAT Advice](/services/international-vat-advice)→ ## From the blog [ ![Smiling woman points to a sheet titled "VAT Tracker" while talking with a client in a salon](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fmedia%2Ffile%2Fwoman-holding-vat-tracker-salon.png%3Fv%3D1773236388760&w=1536&q=75&dpl=dpl_DEc4fGhEc1SCRZZutzoEsRuDy1CJ) ### Flat rate VAT vs standard VAT: which is better for your business? Flat Rate VAT or standard VAT? This plain English guide compares both schemes so you can work out which one saves your business more money. ](/blog/flat-rate-vat-vs-standard-vat)[ ![](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fmedia%2Ffile%2FChatGPT%2520Image%2520Mar%252011%252C%25202026%252C%252002_00_13%2520PM.png%3Fv%3D1773237624762&w=1536&q=75&dpl=dpl_DEc4fGhEc1SCRZZutzoEsRuDy1CJ) ### What triggers an HMRC VAT investigation and how to reduce your risk Worried about an HMRC VAT investigation? Find out what triggers one, how far back HMRC can go, and the practical steps you can take to reduce your risk. ](/blog/what-triggers-hmrc-vat-investigation)[ ![Woman points to 'Common VAT Mistakes for Small Businesses' sheet while a man looks stressed, head in hand](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fmedia%2Ffile%2Fwoman-pointing-vat-mistakes-stressed-man.png%3Fv%3D1773236388899&w=1536&q=75&dpl=dpl_DEc4fGhEc1SCRZZutzoEsRuDy1CJ) ### 9 VAT mistakes small businesses make (and how to fix them) From wrong VAT rates to missed reclaims, these are the most common VAT mistakes small businesses make and what to do if you have made one. ](/blog/common-vat-mistakes-small-businesses) ## Worth considering VAT Services ### VAT Deregistration End VAT registration cleanly with help checking eligibility, choosing the right deregistration date, notifying HMRC, completing the final return, and sorting invoices. [VAT Deregistration→](/services/vat-deregistration) VAT Services ### Flat Rate VAT Scheme Advice Understand whether the Flat Rate VAT Scheme will save you money. We compare it to standard VAT, confirm your sector rate, and set up smooth VAT returns. [Flat Rate VAT Scheme Advice→](/services/flat-rate-vat-scheme-advice) VAT Services ### Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT Stay compliant with Making Tax Digital for VAT. We set up your software or bridging, get your VAT records in order, and submit returns to HMRC on time. [Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT→](/services/making-tax-digital-mtd-for-vat) VAT Services ### VAT Registration We handle your HMRC VAT registration, confirm the right registration date, and help you pick a VAT scheme so you can invoice correctly and stay compliant from day one. [VAT Registration→](/services/vat-registration) ## Before you book These answers are specific to our VAT return service for small businesses and sole traders in Cardiff and South Wales. How often will I need to submit VAT returns? Most businesses file quarterly, but it depends on your turnover and the scheme you're on. Some file monthly, others annually. We'll check your VAT online account to confirm your specific deadline schedule and make sure you never miss one. What records do I need to provide? We need your sales invoices, purchase receipts, and bank statements for the period covered by the return. If you use accounting software, we can work directly from that. Everything must be MTD-compatible to meet HMRC's digital record-keeping rules. How much does your VAT return service cost? Our fees depend on transaction volume and filing frequency. Most small businesses pay between £75 and £150 per return. We'll give you a fixed quote after reviewing your records, so there are no surprises. What happens if I'm owed a VAT refund? We'll prepare the return with full supporting documentation and submit it to HMRC. Refunds are typically processed within 30 days, though HMRC may request evidence if the claim is large or unusual. We'll handle any queries on your behalf. Can you help if I've fallen behind on VAT returns? Yes. We'll catch up any overdue returns, calculate penalties and interest, and get you back on track with HMRC. The sooner we start, the lower the penalties, so it's worth getting in touch as soon as possible. Do you work with businesses outside Cardiff? Absolutely. While we're based in Cardiff, we support businesses across South Wales including Barry, Penarth, Pontypridd, Newport, and the Vale of Glamorgan. Most of our VAT work is done remotely, so location isn't a barrier. What's the difference between standard VAT and the Flat Rate Scheme? Standard VAT requires you to track and reclaim input VAT on every purchase. The Flat Rate Scheme applies a fixed percentage to your turnover, simplifying the calculation but potentially limiting your reclaims. We'll compare both and recommend the best fit for your business. What if HMRC queries one of my returns? We'll respond on your behalf with the necessary records and explanations. Our clients rarely face issues because we ensure returns are accurate and well-documented from the start, but if HMRC does ask questions, we'll handle it. ## Let's talk about your VAT returns Book a free consultation and we'll explain how we can take the stress out of VAT compliance and keep you on the right side of HMRC. [Book a free consultation](https://calendly.com/hlsaccounting/new-client-meeting)