I have a client that runs a pub. They were left in a mess by their previous bookkeeper so I am in the process of bringing everything up to date.
I have an issue with their VAT return though. I took over from the 1st of June and the VAT period runs from May to July. Whilst everything is done for June and July, the previous accountants have not yet provided me with the numbers for May. They say they are currently doing the accounts and may have them completed by the end of August but as the deadline for the VAT return is looming and they have not been reliable before now I am not sure what to do. I have zero information for May, if they do not provide it how can I do this return?
Once this return is submitted, would it be possible to amend the period so that the return aligns with the financial year going forward?
Hi Trisha
If they have to complete the accounts by the end of August that is the end of today! So then they can provide what you need on Monday and you have until 7th to get the return done, surely?
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Joanne
Winner of Bookkeeper of the Year 2015, 2016 & 2017
Thoughts are my own/not to be regarded as official advice,which should be sought from a suitably qualified Accountant.
You should check out answers with reference to the legal position
This is a company that nearly ruined the pub through bad bookkeeping and misinforming the client so I have zero faith that they will get the accounts done by today. If they do then great as I will have what I need in time for the 7th but I am trying to pre-empt a problem.
I have never done it before but can you not apply to HMRC for permission to submit estimated figures on the VAT return.
Although not ideal you must have access to the bank statements and till receipts for the missing month that will enable you to give some sort of estimate towards the VAT position.
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Doug
These are only my opinions of how I see things and therefore should not be taken as advice
Ah, you stated the bookkeeper made a mess, but the Accountants were doing the Accounts, so didnt realise they were one and the same.
Im surprised they left the Accounts to be done with such if they are that unhappy. Would suggest its clear they are going to miss the deadline anyway given they havent finished them and most folk dont just sign them in the space of a couple of hours.
When you took on the bookkeeping work did you do a professional clearance letter? If not that could well explain a few things. Do they have professional body?
Yes you can do estimated - you need to get in touch with HMRC in writing (email?) before you do anything else. See reg 28 and 29 (b).
As Doug says - those two bits of data are the place to start - you can get duplicate bank statements via download (if they have online), or they will have to go in to the bank and get a printout. You can also get duplicate Zs from the tills. Obviously the small receipts for payments out are an issue, but its better to over estimate and adjust next time I would suggest.
Or just get the client to go and collect his paperwork from the previous Accountant this afternoon - if he hasnt already tried (and assuming he has paid his bill).
Edited - WOT!
-- Edited by Cheshire on Saturday 1st of September 2018 11:35:53 AM
__________________
Joanne
Winner of Bookkeeper of the Year 2015, 2016 & 2017
Thoughts are my own/not to be regarded as official advice,which should be sought from a suitably qualified Accountant.
You should check out answers with reference to the legal position
