VAT Voluntary Disclosure

A VAT Voluntary Disclosure is a formal process in the UAE that allows businesses to correct errors or omissions in their previously filed VAT returns. The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) permits businesses to voluntarily disclose discrepancies in their VAT records to ensure compliance and significantly reduce penalties. However, voluntary disclosure is mandatory if the error differs by AED 10,000 or more.

When to Make a VAT Voluntary Disclosure

  1. VAT Returns Errors:
    • A trader discovers mistakes in submitted VAT returns, such as incorrect tax calculations, omitted invoices, or errors in VAT amounts. These require a voluntary disclosure.
    • This includes VAT under-recovery or over-recovery.
  2. Omissions:
    • Failure to account for liable supplies, such as sales or services that should have been charged with VAT.
    • Failure to account for specific taxable transactions, acquisitions, or input VAT claims.
  3. Amount Exceeding AED 10,000 Error Threshold:
    • If the error or omission leads to a VAT discrepancy of more than AED 10,000, it must be filed through a voluntary disclosure.
    • If the discrepancy is less than AED 10,000, the business can correct the error in the next VAT return without filing a voluntary disclosure.

Important Points on VAT Voluntary Disclosure

  • Timely Filing:
    • Disclosures should be made immediately upon discovering an error to avoid severe penalties.
  • Correct Calculations:
    • Ensure accurate calculations on the voluntary disclosure form to prevent further issues with the FTA.
  • Documents:
    • Businesses may need to present supporting documents, such as invoices, contracts, and financial statements.

Why Voluntary Disclosure is Important

  1. Avoiding Harsh Penalties:
    • Submitting a voluntary disclosure allows businesses to avoid greater penalties if mistakes are discovered during an FTA audit.
  2. Compliance:
    • Ensures businesses comply with UAE VAT rules, reducing the chances of future audits and penalties.
  3. Financial Record Correction:
    • Allows for the correction of financial statements and VAT records.

Our Services

  • Error Reconciliation:
    • We help businesses identify all types of errors and discrepancies that need correction in their VAT returns.
  • Filing and Submission:
    • We prepare and file the VAT voluntary disclosure form on behalf of clients, ensuring all information and documents are submitted correctly.
  • Penalties Cancellation:
    • We ensure timely and accurate submissions to minimize penalties.
  • Continued VAT Compliance Support:
    • After submission, we provide ongoing support to ensure your business remains compliant with VAT laws.

Difficulties Faced in VAT Voluntary Disclosure

  1. Missed Errors:
    • Some firms may fail to detect errors in their VAT returns, leading to late submissions and increased penalties.
  2. Incorrect Form Submission:
    • Errors in the voluntary disclosure form can lead to additional penalties and complications with the FTA.
  3. Accruing Penalties:
    • If mistakes are not reported in time, penalties begin to accumulate.

Why Choose Primetax for VAT Voluntary Disclosure?

  • Expertise in VAT Regulations:
    • Our experienced professionals guide you through the voluntary disclosure process efficiently.
  • Fault-Free Filings and Compliance:
    • We ensure accurate voluntary disclosures to avoid further penalties or issues with the FTA.
  • Tailored Solutions:
    • We provide customized VAT services to meet your business needs and minimize tax obligations.

FAQs

  • What happens if I miss submitting a voluntary disclosure on time?
  • How do authorities calculate the penalties for voluntary disclosure?
  • Can I correct multiple VAT errors in one voluntary disclosure?

Get help with your VAT voluntary disclosures by contacting us at Primetax today!