The VAT due is calculated by applying a predetermined flat rate percentage to the business turnover of the VAT period. The turnover will include any exempt supplies, so it will not be beneficial to join the scheme where there are significant exempt supplies.
The percentage rates are determined according to the trade sector of your business and range from 4% up to 14.5%. In the first year of VAT registration, a further 1% reduction applies off the normal rates for businesses. If your business falls into more than one sector, you should use the percentage of the main business activity as measured by turnover. This can be advantageous if you have a large percentage rate secondary activity and a modest major percentage trade. You should review the position on each anniversary. If the main business activity changes or you expect it to change during the following year you should use the appropriate rate for that sector.
Despite that you pay VAT at the flat rate percentage under the scheme, you will still be required to prepare invoices to VAT registered customers showing the normal rate of VAT. This is so that they can reclaim input VAT at the appropriate VAT rate.
If you are starting or have started a business in Lewisham, Bromley, Kent and London areas we, at Adiva Accountants in Lewisham, can advise on whether the VAT Flat Rate scheme would be suitable for your business. Please do not hesitate to contact us at Adiva Accountants in Lewisham for further advice.
Capital assets treatment
Capital goods are excluded from the flat rate scheme. If you purchase capital assets costing more than £2,000 (including VAT), you can claim input VAT on such items on your VAT return in the normal way. You must then account for VAT on a subsequent sale of the asset at the normal rate, instead of the flat rate.
European Community transactions
Income from sales of goods is included in your turnover figure. Where there are acquisitions from EC member states you will still be required to record the VAT on your VAT return in the normal way. Even though you will not be able to reclaim the input VAT unless it is a capital item as outlined above.
The rules on services are complex. Please get in touch if this is an issue so that we can give you specific advice.