HMRC is stepping up its compliance activities when it comes to VAT. In this episode, we explain what businesses can do to prepare for a VAT enquiry and we explore how HMRC and the government could better support businesses in meeting their VAT obligations.

Links 
ICAEW: VAT compliance controls: new guidance from HMRC - https://www.icaew.com/insights/tax-news/2025/feb-2025/vat-compliance-controls-new-guidance-from-hmrc

ICAEW: Making sure a tax return is correct and complete - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/the-tax-track/making-sure-a-tax-return-is-correct-and-complete

ICAEW: Budget: Changes made to VAT rules and processes (e-invoicing) - https://www.icaew.com/insights/tax-news/2025/nov-2025/budget-changes-made-to-vat-rules-and-processes#4

ICAEW: How to fix VAT - https://www.icaew.com/technical/tax/vat/how-to-fix-vat

Host
Stephen Relf, Tax Technical Manager, ICAEW

Guests
Rob Janering, VAT partner, Crowe UK LLP
Simon Atkins, Partner, RSM UK

Producer
Ed Adams

Episode recorded: 21 May 2026
Episode published: 10 June 2026