VAT Returns - HMRC letter regarding XML software

[EWP]

I received a letter today from HMRC stating that my VAT returns are submitted using eXtensible Markup Language (XML) software and as from 8th April 2021 this will no longer be accepted. This is because they are moving to digital transformation that does not accept XML submissions.
HMRC have advised that I should contact my software provider - is this something that QuickFile are aware of / advise on?

Thanks, Eddie

[ian_roberts]

This refers to the old online submission system where you have to enter your government gateway credentials directly into the QuickFile VAT settings page. This method of submission is being discontinued in favour of the newer “Making Tax Digital” mechanism. QuickFile supports both, so it should be relatively straightforward for you to register for MTD on the HMRC site and then connect your tax account to QuickFile.

[EWP]

Hi Ian

I’ve been sending VAT returns on line using QuickFile since staring my business in 2018, so not sure if I have to do anything more, are you able to advise further?
Thanks, Eddie

[rhc]

Hi EWP,
As ian_roberts said, there are(were) two different ways of doing this. The older way and MTD (Making Tax digital). The older system will not work anymore in near future. Only MTD is supported then. Have a look here:

Signing up for Making Tax Digital

Making Tax Digital (MTD) is now live. If you are a VAT registered business from April 8th 2021 you must submit your VAT Returns using the MTD Gateway. Fear not, if you are already using QuickFile to manage your accounting, the setup procedure is very simple. Enrolling for Making Tax Digital (MTD) Before you can file your VAT Return on the new MTD system you must first enroll for MTD within your HMRC Tax Account. First sign into your HMRC Tax Account. [image] On the overview page you will…

and here:

Making Tax Digital - Key Points

What is Making Tax Digital? Making Tax Digital is a HMRC initiative announced in the 2015 Budget that aims to simplify and modernise the tax system for both individuals and businesses. The Making Tax Digital roadmap sets out an ambitious vision on how the tax system will be transformed for the digital age. When will Making Tax Digital be implemented? The first stage of the Making Tax Digital (MTD) rollout was completed in 2022 as all VAT registered businesses were mandated to keep digital rec…

[Lurch]

Yes, the old reliable never had a problem with it old faithful method is being retired to be replaced with something much more unreliable and a general pain to use. Much like the bank feeds saga, the official way is terrible, much preferred the old unofficial ways that just worked how you wanted them to!