MTD penalties are confirmed!

5 September 2022

If you still submit your VAT returns via your gov.uk online account you need to be aware that HMRC have confirmed they will be issuing fines as of 1st November for submitting your VAT in this old way. Making Tax Digital (MTD) is the new way of submitting your VAT returns via MTD compatible software such as QuickBooks or Xero. 

 

As we have previously reported (read our blog here) all VAT registered businesses must sign up to MTD to keep VAT records and file VAT returns, the deadline was April 2022. Although the deadline has passed there is still time to get registered before facing a fine. There is an exception, HMRC have stated that any business that files annual VAT returns will still be able to use their old VAT online account until 15th May 2023. 

 

What could I be fined? 

Any VAT registered business who files their VAT returns without using MTD software could be charged a Filing Through the Incorrect Channel (FTIC) penalty. 

 

Fines are based on a company’s turnover and is per every return filed incorrectly, they are as follows: 

  • £100 for turnover below £100,000 
  • £200 for turnover between £100,000 and £5,600,000 inclusive 
  • £300 for turnover between £5,600,001 and £22,800,000 inclusive 
  • £400 for turnover is £22,800,001 or above 

 

However, if you are already exempt from filing your VAT returns online or if you are subject to an insolvency procedure you will still automatically be exempt and therefore will not be charged a fine. 

 

If you aren’t MTD ready, don’t panic. We have a number of different packages available to suit your needs and budget, check out our MTD for VAT page here or drop us a an email admin@booksandbusiness.co.uk 

by PH186232 22 August 2025
The Bank of England has cut the base rate to 4%. Find out what this means for trades and construction businesses, from borrowing costs to cash flow.
by PH186232 30 July 2025
If you're a sole trader or landlord earning over £50,000 a year, big changes are coming your way. From April 2026, you'll need to comply with Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD for ITSA) and while that might sound like it's a long way off, it’s closer than it seems. At Books and Business, we work closely with those in the trades and construction sector, and we know that admin is rarely top of the to-do list when you're running jobs, managing quotes, and keeping customers happy. But this change will affect how you keep records and report your income, so starting early is key. Lets get into what MTD for ITSA means for your business and more importantly how we can support you every step of the way.
by PH186232 22 June 2025
Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (MTD ITSA) is coming, now is the time to get prepared! Whether you're a sole trader, subcontractor, or running a small limited company, choosing the right accounting software will keep you compliant and help you stay in control of your finances. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best MTD software for your business? Here are some key features to look for: HMRC Compatibility The most important feature is that the software you choose is MTD compliant. It should link directly with HMRC so you can send updates digitally as well as meet other MTD obligations. Ease of Use Your time is best spent on-site, not buried in admin. Choose software that’s straightforward and suits your level of accounting knowledge. Look for mobile apps and dashboards that give you access on the go. Automation & Reporting The best systems will save you time by automating recurring tasks, like invoicing, expense tracking, and mileage logs as well as offering clear reports to help you understand where your money's going. Pricing & Scalability Think about where your business is headed. Can the software grow with you? Choose a platform that fits your budget now, but also supports features like payroll, CIS returns, or multiple users down the line. What are the most popular software options: QuickBooks – A popular option for trades and small business owners, offering strong mobile tools and CIS features. Xero – Great for real-time visibility, simple bank feeds, and job costing add-ons. FreeAgent – Perfect for sole traders and subcontractors, especially those who like things kept simple. Sage – Well-established and ideal if you’re looking for a more traditional setup with solid support. You’ve chosen the software but why make the switch now If you’re still using spreadsheets or a paper-based system, we cannot stress enough that now is the time to go digital . Getting ahead of the MTD deadlines gives you time to learn the software, avoid penalties, and work out any teething problems before submissions are mandatory. A quick note to be aware ...... some banks now include accounting software when you open a new business account. However, it’s advisable to do your research first to ensure the software they are offering meets your business needs. We can help with your MTD journey; we offer a variety of packages to suit each individual’s needs, from basic set up to regular training or just ad hoc training on any areas you may be getting stuck with, we also offer full packages where we can do it all for you. Get in touch for more information.