In this guide, we outline the next steps should you wish for Expandly to take over a VAT number that you previously obtained and which is still active.
Please note: It is extremely important that Expandly is made fully aware of your VAT filing history and filing frequency. This allows us to ensure there are no gaps in your VAT data following the takeover. Any gaps may require additional investigation, which could result in extra charges. More importantly, unresolved historic filing requirements could lead to the VAT number being cancelled if the necessary returns are not completed.
What will Expandly need from you?
- We will need to know your VAT filing periods — whether you file monthly, quarterly, or annually.
- Access to your VAT filing history will be required.
- Please confirm when the VAT number was obtained.
- Who was your previous VAT provider?
- For all VAT takeovers, we require all Standard Documentation to be uploaded via your Expandly Portal. Further information can be found by logging into your portal and navigating to the Tax Registration page. Guidance on the required documents is also available via the relevant support article.
- Depending on the country, additional country-specific documentation will also be required. These documents should likewise be uploaded via your portal and will be listed within the relevant country drop-downs. We also have a range of Knowledge Base articles available should you need further support.
- For UK VAT Take-Overs only. We will also require:
- Your Agent Government Gateway log in details - if you do not already have access to these, your previous provider will so please reach out to them for the details to be shared. Please note: Without these login details, we cannot access your Government Gateway account and will be unable to proceed with the takeover.
Why do you need to know what my VAT Filing period is?
It is important for Expandly to know your VAT filing due dates. Depending on when you signed up, there may be additional invoices required to cover any extra months that need to be filed. This situation is less common for monthly filers; however, if you file monthly and join mid-quarter, there may be gaps in filings that will need to be addressed.
What do I do if I don't know my VAT Filing Period?
In most cases, your previous VAT provider should be able to advise your VAT Filing Period. We recommend contacting them first to obtain this information.
If this is not possible and your filing history is unknown, the matter will need to be investigated with the Tax Office. Please note that a fee will apply, which must be paid before the investigation can proceed. Fees will vary depending on the circumstances and the country, so please get in touch with us if you need to pursue this option.
What happens if I have gaps in my filings?
It is important for Expandly to be aware of any gaps in your VAT filing history. We will need to address any missing filings to avoid potential issues in the future, including the risk of your VAT number being cancelled. Please note that additional charges may apply where historic filing gaps need to be cleared.
How do we proceed if I do not know if I have Filing Gaps?
In most cases, your previous VAT provider should be able to advise if there are any gaps in your filing history. We recommend contacting them first to obtain this information.
If this is not possible and your filing history is unknown, the matter will need to be investigated with the Tax Office. Please note that a fee will apply, which must be paid before the investigation can proceed. Fees will vary depending on the circumstances and the country, so please get in touch with us if you need to pursue this option.
Once we have received all the required information and documentation, we will contact the relevant authorities to initiate the takeover of your VAT number. Lead times for takeovers vary by country, so our Onboarding Team will keep you updated with estimated timelines in line with the current processing times of the respective authorities.
Need more help?
If you need more help,
Contact Us and we'll be happy to help.