If you’re responsible for overseeing VAT compliance for group subsidiaries, the UK’s VAT system can feel unfamiliar and at times frustrating. At Türner & Co., we work exclusively with overseas groups who have operations in the UK. We help make sure everything runs smoothly — accurate returns, compliant processes, and clear communication every step of the way.
This page is for experienced finance professionals, often based outside the UK, who are responsible for ensuring that their UK subsidiary meets all UK VAT obligations.
In the UK, VAT works on a self-assessment basis. That means:
There is no annual reconciliation — each quarterly (or monthly) VAT return is final. That’s different from many jurisdictions where you pay on account and reconcile at year-end.
Get it right, and your UK VAT filings should run efficiently. Get it wrong — late returns, incorrect filings, missing documentation — and you may face HMRC queries, penalties or delays to VAT refunds.
We’re here to help you get it right.
We provide hands-on, practical support for overseas groups with UK subsidiaries. Our services include:
We prepare your returns based on your accounting data, review supporting documents, and submit to HMRC — always with your approval before filing.
We make sure your records and processes are MTD-compliant and can provide bridging software if needed.
We review your UK sales and purchase invoices to ensure they meet HMRC requirements. If invoices are missing key information, we’ll help you correct them.
We access HMRC’s Customs Declaration Service to retrieve VAT certificates for imports into the UK, so you can reclaim the VAT properly.
We anticipate HMRC’s likely questions, particularly for first-time filers or large refund claims, and manage correspondence with HMRC on your behalf.
We specialise in UK tax compliance for overseas-headquartered groups. Our clients value:
We don’t spread ourselves thin. Our focus is 100% on UK tax and accounting compliance for international groups.
We understand how VAT works in practice, not just in theory. We’ve managed VAT compliance for hundreds of UK subsidiaries.
We know our clients aren’t always VAT experts or native English speakers. We explain what you need to know, in plain language.
We don’t just give advice. We roll up our sleeves and handle the filings, the paperwork, and the HMRC emails.
Many of our clients come to us after problems with “one-stop shop” tax providers who offer UK VAT services but lack UK-specific expertise. We’ve helped clients get back on track — including filing overdue returns, resolving HMRC penalties, and correcting historic errors.
Changing advisors is rarely easy. But we’ll make it as smooth as possible.
Usually quarterly. Monthly or annual options are available — we’ll advise on the best fit for your business.
Yes. We’ll ensure the right details are submitted and follow up if HMRC needs further information.
No — but it can make payments easier. We’ll guide you through the options.
Small errors can often be corrected in the next return. Larger errors may need a separate Error Correction Notice. We’ll advise and manage this for you.
Yes, if the invoice is valid and the cost relates to taxable activities. We’ll check the documents and flag anything that needs to be corrected.
Yes. We’ll be your point of contact and keep you informed.
Absolutely. We’ve managed many transitions and can work with HMRC to bring everything up to date.
Whether your UK VAT position is fully up to date or you need help catching up, we’re here to support you. Contact Türner & Co to discuss your UK VAT compliance needs.
Director
Head of Indirect Tax & HR
Associate Director
VAT
