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HMRC VAT guide updated

HMRC has published updates to VAT Notice 700: the VAT guide.

Most of the changes simplify information or remove outdated information, but some additional information has been added such as text about the importance of distinguishing between single and mixed supplies.

Changes from the previous edition

Paragraph Change
2.5 Simplified to give introductory information and a link to more detailed guidance.
4.8.4 Rewritten to incorporate additional VAT Mini One Stop Shop guidance.
6 Simplified to give introductory information and a link to more detailed guidance.
7.6 Former paragraph 7.6 deleted and information on the cost of goods included in paragraphs 8.9.1 and 9.3.1, both of which it had previously cross referred to.
8.1 Additional information included about the importance of distinguishing between single and mixed supplies.
8.1.2 and 8.1.3 8.1.2 previously covered when apportionment is needed and when it must not be used. Split into 2 paragraphs for clarity.
8.17 New paragraph on single-use carrier bags.
13.1 Simplified to give introductory information and a link to more detailed guidance.
14.3.1 New paragraph on continuous supplies to connected persons.
16.6 Previously covered less detailed and modified VAT invoices. Updated to cover guidance on simplified and retailer invoices.
16.8 New paragraph on the procedures to use when holding an invalid VAT invoice.
17.7 Previously covered computer invoicing. Updated to cover guidance on electronic invoicing.
17.8 Paragraph on transmission of invoices deleted as out of date. Sending or receiving electronic invoices is covered in 17.7.
18.5 Simplified to give introductory information and a link to more detailed guidance.
19 Simplified to give introductory information and a link to more detailed guidance.
19.2 New section to bring together information on accounting schemes.
20.6 Annual accounting scheme moved to new section on accounting schemes 19.2.
21.2.3 Additional wording to clarify what information needs to be provided by customers asking for approval to estimate figures on VAT Returns.
21.3 Simplified to give introductory information and a link to more detailed guidance.
21.7 Simplified to give introductory information and a link to more detailed guidance.
22 Outdated references removed.
23.1.2 Guidance added on the VAT treatment for agents registered for VAT and acting in their own name when the customer isn’t registered for VAT.
24 Outdated references to ‘the revised treatment’ and historical background information removed.
26.2 Simplified to give introductory information and a link to more detailed guidance.
26.9 Simplified to give introductory information and a link to more detailed guidance.
26.11 Paragraph on Voluntary cancellation deleted. Topic now referred to in paragraph 26.2.
27.3 New paragraph explaining the penalties that can be issued for inaccuracies. Remainder of section renumbered.
27.4 Simplified to give introductory information and a link to more detailed guidance.
27.5.2 Additional text included in knowledge of fraud paragraph to make it clear what a business should do to check and maintain the integrity of its supply chains.
27.8 Simplified to give introductory information and a link to more detailed guidance.

Paragraphs have been renumbered accordingly.