Change the default VAT return period length

This article explains how to set and change the default VAT return lengths in FreeAgent.

Please note that changing the VAT return frequency in your VAT registration settings will only update future VAT returns. Historical VAT returns won't be updated.

If your business is changing the frequency of VAT return submissions, for example switching from yearly to quarterly, or quarterly to monthly, you'll have to change the default VAT return frequency in your VAT registration settings.

Navigate to ‘Settings’ from the drop-down menu at the top-right of the screen and select ‘VAT Registration’.

VAT Registration highlighted in Accounting, Tax and VAT section of Settings page.

Choose the new frequency from the 'Frequency of returns' drop-down menu and select 'Save Changes' at the bottom of the screen to complete the process.

Frequency of returns drop-down menu highlighted in the VAT settings area

If FreeAgent has already created VAT returns in your account, you'll need to check the period length for these and edit the VAT period end date of any that aren't suitable. Read about how to edit your VAT return details.

Period Ends on date highlighted on a VAT return's details

Once you have updated the period end date of any relevant unfiled VAT returns so that they cover the suitable period, FreeAgent will use the frequency selected in the VAT settings for all future VAT returns generated.

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