What is The VAT People Network?

Many businesses do not have a dedicated VAT specialist in-house. This can create uncertainty for accountants when dealing with complex or non-standard VAT issues.

The VAT People Network provides a reliable extension to in-house finance teams and accountancy functions, giving accountants access to specialist VAT expertise, practical guidance on specific transactions, and ongoing advisory support when required. This allows accountants to manage VAT obligations with greater certainty, particularly in areas such as input VAT recovery, partial exemption and compliance, where incorrect treatment can lead to HMRC challenge or restricted recovery.

What are the benefits of joining The VAT People Network?

The VAT People Network is designed to strengthen the VAT capability of accountants, whether working in practice or within a business, by providing access to specialist support and comprehensive guidance. It enables you to support your organisation and your clients with confidence, without the cost and resource required to employ a dedicated VAT specialist in-house.

Key benefits include:

• Specialist VAT support from experienced consultants
• Practical resources and technical guidance to support day-to-day queries
• Support in complying with HMRC expectations and maintaining ongoing VAT compliance
• Guidance on applying the correct VAT treatment across transactions
• Insights to help optimise VAT recovery and improve overall VAT efficiency
• Reduced risk in VAT decision-making and reporting
• Cost savings compared to hiring in-house VAT specialists
• Opportunities to identify and develop new revenue streams through enhanced services

What is a ‘First Response’ letter review? 

This is a rapid assessment service designed to give you immediate clarity after receiving correspondence from HMRC. You simply forward the HMRC letter to The VAT People, and we will provide a concise email outlining your recommended initial response strategy.

This will typically cover:

• The nature and seriousness of HMRC’s enquiry or position
• The key risks or exposure identified from the letter
• The most appropriate next steps to protect your VAT position

Where your case requires formal dispute resolution or further intervention, The VAT People will also offer a 10% discount on our services for handling the matter with HMRC on your behalf.

Are your VAT webinars CPD accredited?

Our VAT webinars are CPD eligible, meaning they can contribute towards your continuing professional development requirements. Following attendance, you will receive a certificate confirming your participation, which can be used as proof of your learning when logging your CPD.

What are the benefits of having a dedicated consultant?

Instead of relying on a generic helpline or shared inbox, you will have a named consultant from The VAT People as your primary point of contact. This provides consistency in advice, from a specialist who understands your business, its VAT position, and any ongoing issues. It allows for more efficient communication, quicker responses, and advice that is tailored to your specific circumstances rather than general guidance.

What are the benefits of using the helpline?

The helpline provides direct access to specialist VAT support between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, allowing you to speak with an experienced adviser about your queries as they arise. This enables prompt, practical guidance on both routine and complex VAT issues, helping to reduce uncertainty, support compliance, and improve the accuracy of your VAT treatment.

Is there any discount available?

Yes. With either package, accountants receive a 10% discount on dedicated consultant fees, making it more cost-effective to access specialist VAT advice for client matters when required.