What deadlines apply to the advance VAT return?
February 6, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Lina Sauer
Dear tax advisor,
My name is Jenny Köhler and I run a small online trading company. In recent months, I have been dealing intensively with the topic of value added tax, as I have repeatedly had uncertainties when it comes to submitting VAT returns. I have already submitted some returns, but I have not been able to fully understand the exact deadlines involved.
Currently, VAT returns are submitted monthly, as my annual turnover is below 1 million euros. However, I have difficulties in meeting the correct deadlines and I am worried that I may miss deadlines. I definitely want to avoid any financial disadvantages or penalties as a result.
Could you please explain to me in detail the specific deadlines for VAT returns? Both for monthly and quarterly returns? Are there any differences between online and paper forms? And what consequences could I face if I miss a deadline?
I would greatly appreciate your help and support in order to better understand my tax obligations and ensure that I meet all deadlines. Thank you in advance.
Yours sincerely,
Jenny Köhler
Dear Jenny Köhler,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the deadlines for the advance VAT return. It is understandable that you are concerned and uncertain about this, as meeting the deadlines plays a crucial role in correctly submitting your tax returns. I am happy to explain the specific deadlines for the advance VAT return and also address the differences between online and paper forms, as well as possible consequences of missing deadlines.
In general, for companies with an annual turnover of less than 1 million euros, the monthly advance VAT return applies. The deadline for submitting this return is the 10th of the following month. This means that you must submit your advance VAT return for the month of April, for example, by May 10th. It is important to meet this deadline to avoid possible penalties or other consequences.
For companies that have opted for quarterly advance VAT returns, longer deadlines apply accordingly. In this case, the returns must be submitted by the 10th of the second month after the end of the reporting period. This means that for the first quarter (January to March), you would need to submit the advance VAT return by May 10th. Please note that you must register with the tax office in advance for quarterly reporting.
Regarding the differences between online and paper forms, I can inform you that submitting the advance VAT return in digital form via the tax office's Elster portal is usually quicker and easier. Here, you have the option to fill out the return electronically and transmit it directly to the tax office. In contrast, with a paper form, you would need to fill out the corresponding form, print it, and send it by mail to the tax office. However, please note that the deadlines for submission apply regardless of the means of transmission.
If you miss a deadline for the advance VAT return, there may be various consequences. The tax office may impose late payment penalties, which vary depending on the extent of the delay. Additionally, you may face default interest and potentially other actions by the tax office. Therefore, it is advisable to always keep an eye on the deadlines for the advance VAT return and submit it on time.
I hope this information is helpful and answers your questions. If you need further assistance or advice, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Lina Sauer
