VAT & Indirect Tax Advisers for Yorkshire Businesses

VAT Is More Complex Than It Looks

VAT is one of the most operationally demanding taxes a business faces. Unlike corporation tax or income tax, VAT touches almost every transaction — sales, purchases, expenses, imports — and the rules governing what is taxable, what is exempt, and what can be reclaimed are considerably more complex than they first appear.

Walter Dawson & Son provide VAT and indirect tax advice to owner-managed businesses across Yorkshire. Whether you are approaching the registration threshold for the first time, dealing with a compliance review, managing partial exemption, or navigating the VAT implications of a business change, our tax team can help.

Speak to our VAT team

Who We Help

Our VAT and indirect tax clients are typically owner-managed businesses or their directors across Yorkshire who need practical, accurate advice rather than textbook explanations. We regularly work with:

Businesses approaching or exceeding the VAT registration threshold
Businesses that are VAT registered but unsure whether they are filing correctly
Businesses with mixed supplies — some taxable, some exempt or zero-rated — where partial exemption applies
Property and construction businesses, where VAT rules are particularly complex
Businesses importing or exporting goods, where customs duties and import VAT apply
Businesses that have received a VAT inspection notice or are in dispute with HMRC
Businesses joining Making Tax Digital for VAT for the first time

Our VAT & Indirect Tax Services

VAT Registration

We advise on whether and when to register for VAT, including voluntary registration where it is beneficial. We handle the registration application and ensure your business is set up correctly from the outset — accounting software configured, VAT codes applied, and MTD for VAT obligations understood.

VAT Advisory and Planning

VAT planning is not just for large businesses. For owner-managed businesses, getting the VAT treatment of a transaction wrong — a property purchase, a business restructure, an acquisition — can be costly and difficult to correct. We advise on the VAT implications before decisions are made, not after.

VAT Returns

We prepare and submit your VAT returns accurately and on time. For clients using cloud accounting software such as Xero or Sage, we review and submit directly through MTD-compatible filing. We also review returns prepared in-house where clients want a second set of eyes before submission.

VAT Compliance Reviews

If you are not confident that your VAT processes are correct, or if HMRC has contacted you about a compliance check, we can carry out a review of your VAT position. We identify errors, assess the risk of penalties, and advise on voluntary disclosure where appropriate.

Partial Exemption

Businesses that make both taxable and exempt supplies — common in financial services, property, healthcare, and education — cannot reclaim all of the VAT they incur. We calculate partial exemption positions, apply the standard method or agree a special method with HMRC where appropriate, and ensure the annual adjustment is handled correctly.

Indirect Tax — Customs Duties and Excise

For businesses importing goods into the UK, customs duties and import VAT add complexity and cost. We advise on duty classifications, customs valuation, available duty reliefs, and the VAT treatment of imports and exports. We also advise on excise duty where relevant to your business sector.

Making Tax Digital for VAT

MTD for VAT is now mandatory for all VAT-registered businesses. We ensure clients have compliant software in place, digital links between systems are maintained, and returns are submitted through MTD-compatible channels. If you are not yet fully MTD compliant, contact us before HMRC does.

Current VAT Rates

VAT Rate	Rate	Applies To
Standard rate	20%	Most goods and services
Reduced rate	5%	Domestic energy, children’s car seats, energy-saving materials (insulation, solar panels, heat pumps) installed in residential properties, and certain home renovations
Zero rate	0%	Most food, children’s clothing, books, and most exports
Exempt	N/A	Insurance, financial services, education, and some property transactions

VAT registration is required once taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any rolling 12-month period. Voluntary registration is available below this threshold. Last reviewed: 24.06.2026 | Source: HMRC — gov.uk/vat-rates

How Can I Get Started with Your VAT & Indirect Tax Advisory Services?

To get started, simply contact our team to schedule a consultation. Our experienced tax advisors will assess your VAT and indirect tax needs, discuss potential compliance issues, and develop tailored strategies to optimise your tax position.

What Are the Penalties for VAT Non-Compliance?

VAT non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, and interest charges imposed by HMRC. Penalties may vary depending on the nature and severity of the non-compliance. Our advisors can help you avoid penalties by ensuring compliance with VAT regulations.

How Can I Optimise VAT Recovery and Minimise Liabilities?

Our VAT advisory services include strategic planning and advice aimed at optimising VAT recovery and minimising VAT liabilities. We assess your business activities, transactions, and supply chains to identify opportunities for VAT optimisation.

Can I Reclaim VAT on Business Expenses?

Yes, businesses registered for VAT can generally reclaim VAT on eligible business expenses incurred for business purposes. Our advisors can provide guidance on the VAT recovery rules and assist with maximising VAT reclaims.

What VAT Schemes Are Available for Small Businesses?

Small businesses may benefit from various VAT schemes, including the Flat Rate Scheme, Cash Accounting Scheme, and Annual Accounting Scheme. Our advisors can help you understand the eligibility criteria and benefits of each scheme.

How Often Do I Need to File VAT Returns?

VAT returns are typically filed on a quarterly basis for most businesses. However, businesses with annual VAT liabilities below £1.5 million may be eligible to join the VAT Annual Accounting Scheme or submit VAT returns on a monthly basis.

Do I Need to Register for VAT?

VAT registration is required for businesses with taxable turnover exceeding the current registration threshold, which is £90,000. Our advisors can assess your business activities and turnover to determine whether VAT registration is necessary.