When security will be required for VAT

VAT law gives HMRC the power to require a person who is or is required to be registered for VAT to give an amount of security for the ‘protection of revenue’ (ie where there is a serious risk that the taxpayer will not pay VAT which is or becomes due).

HMRC may require this security to be paid either pre or post-verification.

Pre-verification security may be required where HMRC offers to make payment prior to carrying out a full verification and either:

1. •

   the claim is for at least £500,000 and HMRC requires time to verify that it is valid

2. •

   the business has submitted a claim that HMRC has reason to believe may be inaccurate or invalid

3. •

   HMRC has reason to believe that the business could be involved in missing trader fraud

Post-verificiation security may be required where