Filing VAT returns
Businesses must file their VAT returns using functional compatible software. Most businesses are doing this successfully, but those who do not may be charged a £400 penalty for each VAT return filed.
Keeping records digitally
Businesses must also keep some records digitally within their functional compatible software.
Transferring/exchanging data between software programmes
If business transfers or exchanges data between software programmes, this should be done using digital links. Businesses must digitally link each piece of software they use. A digital link is where you transfer or exchange data electronically between software programs, apps or products. You must not transfer or exchange data manually.
Some examples of digital links are:
- linked cells in spreadsheets, including the use of ‘cell number/return’ functions
- emailing a spreadsheet containing digital records so the information can be imported into another software product
- transferring a set of digital records onto a portable device, such as a pen drive or memory stick, and physically giving this to someone else to import that data into their software
- XML, CSV import and export, and download and upload of files
- automated data transfer
- Application Programming Interface (API) transfer
Please see the link below, from HMRC, that expands on these rules.
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