In this section:
VAT returns sent back to you for correction
If you send us a paper VAT return and we discover an error, such as missing information or an arithmetic error, we'll send it back to you for correction. This guide explains how you should correct it and return it to us.
On this page:
- How to correct your VAT return if it is sent back to you
- Your accountant completed your return on your behalf
- Your bookkeeper or accountant is away
- Where to send any extra payments due because of the correction
- If you know there are errors on a VAT return you have filed but we haven't sent it back
- Getting it right first time
How to correct your VAT return if it is sent back to you
If you send us a paper VAT return and we find an error, such as missing, incomplete, illegible information or an arithmetic error, we'll send it back to you with a form V106. This identifies the error and tells you where we need you to either:
- give us more information
- change your return
If you've made a mistake on the form you can use correction fluid to cover up incorrect figures, or you can simply cross them out and put the right figures next to them. Whichever you do, sign any corrections with your initials and send the form back to us in the pre-addressed envelope we enclosed with it.
You'll also need to send us any extra VAT you owe as a result of making the correction.
Time limits for making corrections
We may give you a time limit for making the corrections and sending back your return. If so, please make sure you do what we ask within the period we specify. If you don't make the corrections - or you don't make them within the time we give you - you may have to pay a financial penalty.
Help with making corrections
If you need help with correcting your return, you should contact us at the Accounting Adjustments Helpdesk on Tel 0151 703 8438. Lines are open between 9.00 am and 4.30 pm, Monday to Friday.
If you'd like to send us a copy of your corrected return or your query electronically then you can email us.
Where to put corrections relating to road fuel scale charges
If you're correcting information about road fuel scale charges, please include:
- the VAT element in boxes 1 and 3
- the scale charge in box 6
Find out about reclaiming VAT on motoring expenses
Your accountant completed the return on your behalf
You can correct your VAT return yourself even if your accountant filled it out originally on your behalf. Remember to initial all the changes you make.
Your bookkeeper or accountant is away
It's always best to send us your corrected return as soon as possible. If we have given you a time limit for making the corrections and sending back the return and you don't comply with it, you may have to pay a financial penalty.
Where to send any extra payments due because of the correction
If you're sending your corrected return by post in the pre-addressed envelope, you can enclose your extra payment with it. You can send a cheque or a postal order. It is faster and more secure to send your payment electronically.
If sending payment by post:
- make sure you cross all cheques and postal orders 'A/C Payee only'
- make cheques and postal orders payable to HM Revenue & Customs
- put a line through any spaces on the pay line
- put your VAT registration number on the back of your cheque
- please don't send post-dated cheques
It's not safe to send notes, coins or uncrossed postal orders through the post.
If you need to send your payment separately, post it to the following address:
VAT Controller
VAT Central Unit
BX5 5AT
Find out about the different ways you can pay your VAT
If you know there are errors on a VAT return you have filed but we haven't sent it back
If you know you've sent us a VAT return with mistakes on it you must take action to correct them - even if we haven't sent the return back to you.
Get details of how to correct errors on VAT returns
Getting it right first time
It's best to avoid making errors on your VAT return in the first place.
If you file your VAT returns online, checks take place to prevent you from making certain types of error. Where appropriate, boxes are added or subtracted automatically so you don't have to do it.
Find out what you can do to avoid making errors on VAT returns
Find out how set up an online VAT account and file your VAT return online
