How Do I Pay My VAT to HMRC? (UK Companies short guide)

You’ve filed your VAT return (go you 🎉), now it’s time to actually pay the bill. If you’re staring at your screen thinking, “Where do I even send the money?” — don’t worry, you’re not alone.

Paying VAT to HMRC is surprisingly straightforward when you know where to click and what reference to use. This blog breaks it all down for you, no jargon, no stress.

📆 Step 1: Check the due date

VAT payments are due one calendar month and seven days after the end of your VAT period.

So, for example:

• If your VAT period ends 31 March

• Your payment must reach HMRC by 7 May

⚠️ Weekends and bank holidays count — if the 7th falls on one, make sure the payment clears before.

🧾 Step 2: Know how much you owe

You’ll see the amount due after you’ve submitted your VAT return:

• Log in to your HMRC VAT account

• Go to “Payments” → “View VAT payment details”

• Double-check the figure (and save a copy for your records)

🔗 Log in to your VAT online account

💷 Step 3: Choose your payment method

Here are the most common (and reliable) ways to pay your VAT bill:

🔹 1. Direct Debit

• Set it up in your VAT account

• HMRC collects the amount automatically three working days after the deadline

• BUT you must have filed the return on time for the Direct Debit to work!

🔹 2. Bank Transfer (Faster Payments, BACS or CHAPS)

• Use your VAT registration number as the payment reference

• Pay to the correct HMRC bank account (usually Cumbernauld or Shipley)

🔹 3. Business Banking App

Many online banks let you select “Pay HMRC – VAT” and input your details.

🔹 4. Online Card Payment

• Pay by debit or corporate credit card via the HMRC portal

• Pay VAT by card here

🚫 What not to do

• Don’t miss the deadline – Late payment = interest charges

• Don’t forget the reference – Always use your VAT number, or your payment might not be matched

• Don’t rely on a same-day bank transfer at 8 pm on a Friday – It might not clear in time!

✨ Pro Tip: Keep reminders handy

Pop VAT dates in your calendar, stick a post-it on your fridge, or let us handle it for you. Our clients love the peace of mind that comes with daily bookkeeping, we spot your VAT deadlines way before they sneak up.

🧠 Need help staying VAT-compliant?

Whether you’re just hitting the VAT threshold or you’ve been filing for years, we make sure your returns are accurate, your payments are on time, and your brain doesn’t melt from staring at spreadsheets.

Book a free call with us and let’s make VAT less stressful, together.