If you’re self-employed, a sole trader, or an individual registered for VAT in the UK, it’s crucial to know when your VAT returns are due. VAT returns are typically submitted every three months, and failing to do so can result in penalties from HMRC. Since the UK Government implemented Making Tax Digital (MTD), all VAT returns must be submitted online through authorised software. This makes it easier to maintain proper records and file on time.
This guide will provide a quick, month-by-month summary of the next VAT return deadlines for 2025. These dates will enable you to plan your finances and avoid a penalty. The guide is revised by a UK-based accounting expert with more than 10 years of experience to ensure you obtain accurate and useful information.
Upcoming VAT Return Deadlines in 2025
- 7 May 2025: Q1 VAT Return for January to March 2025
- 7 August 2025: Q2 VAT Return for April to June 2025
- 7 November 2025: Q3 VAT Return for July to September 2025
- 7 February 2026: Q4 VAT Return for October to December 2025
All VAT returns should be submitted and paid on the 7th of the second month at the end of each quarter. For instance, the Q1 return from January to March must be done by 7 May 2025. This timely filing avoids penalty and interest fees.
What is a VAT Return?
A VAT return is a document you post to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) demonstrating how much customers have paid your business and how much VAT you’ve been charged on purchases in a set time. It aids HMRC in calculating whether or not you need to pay them money, or if they should pay you a refund.
For instance, suppose your enterprise sold items totalling £10,000 plus VAT and remitted £2,000 VAT for your purchases, your VAT return will indicate a difference between both figures.
Who Needs to Submit a VAT Return?
If your company is VAT-registered, you must make regular VAT returns, even if you didn’t have any sales or were due VAT for payment during the period. Companies that don’t fall within the VAT registration limit (£85,000 turnover per annum) or only sell VAT-zero-rated items don’t need to prepare VAT returns.
You can check our other guides on how to submit a VAT return for detailed step-by-step instructions.
How Frequently Do VAT Returns Have to Be Filed?
Most companies send VAT returns every quarter. The standard VAT quarters are 31 March, 30 June, 30 September, and 31 December. You must file your return by the 7th day of the second month following the quarter. So, in the first quarter (January to March), your VAT return is due by 7 May.
Certain companies opt to file VAT returns monthly if they wish to receive VAT repayments more quickly or have greater control over their cash management. Other firms file once a year under special arrangements.
What Are Staggered Periods?
HMRC stagger groups to hand out the VAT return deadlines. It does not give everyone the same deadline, which prevents system overloading. You can locate your group and precise deadlines in your HMRC online account.
How to Find Your VAT Return Period?
You can view your VAT return deadlines by logging into HMRC’s portal or using accounting software. Most software packages will even remind you when your VAT return is due or fill it in for you automatically.
Pro Tip for Avoiding VAT Return Deadlines
Use calendar reminders or accounting software that automatically sends reminders to prevent you from missing deadlines. That easy step will prevent you from paying late filing penalties and stress.
By learning about VAT returns, who should submit one, and how often, you can stay on top of your business and HMRC. Online resources and staying organized and aware of deadlines make it a lot easier for small businesses, freelancers, and individuals alike to deal with VAT.
VAT Return Deadlines – Month-by-Month Breakdown (2025)
| VAT Period End | Filing Deadline | Payment Deadline | Notes |
| 30 Nov 2024 | 7 Jan 2025 | 7 Jan 2025 | Plan ahead after holidays to avoid delays. |
| 31 Dec 2024 | 7 Feb 2025 | 7 Feb 2025 | Early submission recommended if your accountant is busy. |
| 31 Jan 2025 | 7 Mar 2025 | 7 Mar 2025 | Keep records ready to avoid last-minute rush. |
| 28 Feb 2025 | 7 Apr 2025 | 7 Apr 2025 | Keep records ready to avoid the last-minute rush. |
| 31 Mar 2025 | 7 May 2025 | 7 May 2025 | Q1 VAT return deadline; essential for quarterly filers. |
| 30 Apr 2025 | 7 Jun 2025 | 7 Jun 2025 | Maintain accurate sales and purchase records. |
| 31 May 2025 | 7 Jul 2025 | 7 Jul 2025 | Use MTD-compliant software for smooth submission. |
| 30 Jun 2025 | 7 Aug 2025 | 7 Aug 2025 | Q2 VAT return deadline: avoid penalties by timely filing. |
| 31 Jul 2025 | 7 Sep 2025 | 7 Sep 2025 | Review VAT on business expenses carefully. |
| 31 Aug 2025 | 7 Oct 2025 | 7 Oct 2025 | Prepare for year-end accounting tasks. |
| 30 Sep 2025 | 7 Nov 2025 | 7 Nov 2025 | Q3 VAT return deadline: ensure all data is accurate. |
| 31 Oct 2025 | 7 Dec 2025 | 7 Dec 2025 | Avoid last-minute submissions before holidays. |
| 30 Nov 2025 | 7 Jan 2026 | 7 Jan 2026 | Plan early to start the new year stress-free. |
| 31 Dec 2025 | 7 Feb 2026 | 7 Feb 2026 | Q4 VAT return deadline: final quarterly submission for the year. |
How to Stay Compliant and Avoid Penalties for UK VAT Returns?
Remaining current on VAT return due dates is essential for small business owners, freelancers, and individuals to avoid expensive fines and interest charges. Here’s a simple guide on late submission fines, payment penalties, and practical advice to keep you compliant.
Late Submission Penalties
HMRC uses a points-based penalty system for late VAT return submissions. Each late submission adds points to your account, and accumulating a certain number of points triggers a penalty. For example:
- Missing one VAT return deadline adds points.
- Repeated late submissions within 12 months can lead to fines.
Common reasons are forgetting the deadline, return errors that cause submission delays, or non-filing. Penalties begin at £ 200 for the initial late submission and escalate with repeated offences. You can check the official details of VAT late submission penalties on the HMRC website.
Late Payment Interest
If you make a late VAT payment, HMRC will charge interest on the debt. HMRC determines the interest rate and may vary it every quarter. Interest runs daily from the day after the due date until the payment in full is made.
For Example, if your VAT payment is due on 7 May but you make a late payment, interest will be added from 8 May until HMRC receives the payment. This can quickly add up, boosting your total tax bill.
Tips to Avoid Missing Deadlines
To keep your VAT returns on track and prevent penalties:
- Use Making Tax Digital (MTD)-compliant software: Use tools like Xero or QuickBooks to track your VAT periods automatically and assist with filing VAT returns online, as required by HMRC
- Set calendar alerts: Mark your VAT deadlines clearly on your calendar with reminders a week before the due date.
- Outsource to VAT Specialist: If managing VAT Return Deadlines feels overwhelming, consider hiring a qualified VAT Professional who will help you file VAT Returns in a timely and accurate manner.
Following these practices minimises the chances of late payment and filing, leaving your business compliant and free of penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I miss a VAT return deadline?
You get penalty points and possibly a fine of at least £200 for the initial late submission.
How is interest charged on late VAT payments?
Interest is charged daily from the day after the due date until payment in full, at HMRC’s current interest rate.
Can I submit VAT returns manually?
No, in Making Tax Digital (MTD), all VAT returns must be submitted digitally via MTD-compatible software.
What is the best way to avoid late filing penalties?
Utilise MTD-compatible software, set calendar reminders, or employ a bookkeeper to process your VAT returns.
Are there any VAT return deadline exceptions?
If the deadline is on a Saturday or a bank holiday, it transfers to the next working day. To check out all the holidays, go to the official Website of HMRC.
Conclusion
Keeping up with your VAT return due dates is crucial for small business owners, freelancers, and UK individuals to prevent penalties and interest rates. Failure to meet deadlines can result in fines and unwanted financial stress. You can make timely submissions and payments by knowing the monthly VAT return deadlines and arranging them in advance. Employing HMRC-approved digital accounting software and reminders ensures your VAT filing is stress-free and organised.
If VAT returns seem complex or time-consuming, getting assistance from a professional accountant is an excellent decision. Coxhinkins, a reliable accounting firm based in Oxford, specialises in professional VAT services and can assist you in fulfilling all your VAT requirements correctly and within time. Call them today for expert VAT return assistance and ensure your business stays compliant and hassle-free.
Disclaimer: Kindly note this blog provides general information and should not be considered financial advice. We recommend consulting a qualified financial advisor for personalised guidance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on this content.
