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A VAT Inspector Calls: What to have ready when the VAT officer visits

The first and foremost thing that you need to have is plenty of coffee, tea and biscuits. You might find this funny but you have to remember that VAT officers are just doing a job and by giving them some snack and drink, you will be able to show them that you will try and make things go as smoothly as possible and the gesture will be appreciated. You may also put them in a better mood!

After the initial discussions (and coffee), the VAT officer will need to look at the VAT returns and workings for the last three years. You may also be asked to provide your accounts for the last three years. The main purpose is that the VAT officer will want to reconcile the sales figures on the VAT returns to the sales figures shown in the accounts.

Just to note - the VAT officer should only ask for the books and records of the business. However, if they ask for something which you do not think they are entitled to ask for, please contact us on 020 8458 7427 before handing the item over.

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