VAT Return Services

Simplified, Accurate, and Compliant

VAT can feel like a moving target, especially when you are busy running the business. We take the pressure off by preparing and filing your VAT returns accurately, on time, and in line with Revenue requirements. We also help you stay organised using cloud tools, so you can see where you stand before the deadline lands.
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VAT support for a range
of Irish businesses

Different industries face different VAT headaches. We work with Irish businesses across a wide mix of sectors, and we tailor the VAT approach to how you actually trade.

E-commerce sellers

Navigating OSS and IOSS, distance selling rules, and platform reporting while keeping your VAT filings tidy.

Construction and trades

Correct VAT rates, clean documentation, and support where VAT interacts with how projects are billed and managed. If you also need broader support, explore contracting accounting and sole trader accounting.

Consultants and service businesses

Managing VAT on services sold in Ireland, to the EU, and internationally, with clear records to support the treatment used. For limited companies, see limited company accounting.

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Complete VAT Services Handled for You

Our VAT service covers everything from set up to ongoing compliance, so you can meet your Revenue obligations without the hassle. Whether you file every two months, use direct debit, or have cross border reporting, we will guide you through it and handle the heavy lifting.

VAT registration and set up

Registering for VAT is not just a tick box. We help you get it right from day one, including the right registration type, correct effective dates, and clean records to support your filings.

VAT return preparation and filing

We prepare your VAT return based on properly reconciled records, then submit it through ROS. You get clarity on what is due, why it is due, and what you can claim back.

VIES and intra EU returns

If you trade with EU businesses, reporting can get complicated quickly. We help you stay compliant with VIES reporting and the supporting VAT treatment.

OSS and IOSS for e-commerce

Selling online across borders can trigger OSS and IOSS requirements. We support e-commerce sellers with the right approach to VAT, including cross border sales reporting. If you also need full support for your online business, see our e-commerce accounting service.

Ask us to review your claimable expenses

Smart tech for accurate returns

We use a practical cloud setup to keep VAT work clean and efficient. It helps reduce errors, protects your claims, and gives you a clearer view of your VAT position throughout the period.

Effortless receipt capture

Snap a photo or upload a file and keep everything stored properly, so you do not lose VAT reclaim opportunities.

Fewer errors, fewer headaches

Better record capture and structured bookkeeping reduces mistakes that can lead to amendments, missed claims, or Revenue queries.

Real time VAT position

With up to date records, you can estimate what you will owe and plan cash flow before the deadline arrives.

How our process works

We keep this simple. You will always know what we need, what we have done, and what is coming next.

Send us your documents

Share your records using your preferred method. If you want a cleaner workflow, we will show you an easy way to capture receipts and invoices consistently.

We prepare and review

We reconcile the data, review VAT treatment, calculate your liability, and prepare the draft return for your approval.

We file and confirm

Once you give the go ahead, we submit the return through ROS and confirm everything has been filed on time.

Doing VAT yourself vs working
with a VAT specialist

Many businesses handle VAT themselves until something goes wrong — a missed reclaim, a late filing, or a Revenue query. VAT errors are usually accidental, but they can still be costly. Here’s the difference between managing VAT on your own and having Forti handle it properly.
Comparison table

Managing VAT yourself

  • Figures estimated close to deadline
  • Risk of misclassifying sales or costs
  • Manual checks and spreadsheets
  • Stress around ROS deadlines
  • Unclear reclaim entitlement
  • No support if Revenue queries
  • You chase updates

VAT returns with Forti

  • VAT position reviewed in advance
  • Correct VAT treatment applied
  • Clean, reconciled records
  • Returns filed on time
  • VAT reclaimed correctly
  • Records ready to support filings
  • 24-business hour enquiry response
Thinking of switching accountants?

The smart choice for your VAT returns

VAT can be complicated, especially when selling across borders. We make sure you get every decision right — registration type, rates, reclaim entitlements, and ROS submissions.

Expert advice

VAT rules and treatments can change depending on what you sell, where you sell, and how you invoice. We help you make the right call, and we keep the logic clear.

Tailored service

We do not force every business into the same process. We adapt your VAT workflow to your trade, your software, and your reporting needs.

Hassle free filing

From calculations to ROS submission, we manage the full VAT filing process and keep you on track with what is due and when.

Focus on your business

VAT admin can swallow hours every month. We give you time back, reduce stress, and keep you compliant.

Irish VAT return requirements
quick guide

Frequency of filing

VAT returns are often filed every two months. The standard taxable periods commonly start on 1 January, 1 March, 1 May, 1 July, 1 September, and 1 November.
Some smaller businesses may qualify for less frequent filing, depending on their VAT liability. There is also an option in some cases to pay monthly by direct debit and submit one annual VAT return.

Key forms you should know

  • VAT3 return: The main VAT return used to report VAT due or VAT reclaim for the period.
  • Return of Trading Details: A summary of yearly sales and purchases, categorised by VAT rate, generally submitted with the final VAT return for the year.

Deadlines

The standard deadline for filing and paying VAT is the 19th day of the month after the end of the taxable period. If you file and pay through ROS, the deadline is typically extended to the 23rd day of the month.

Staying compliant

Keeping accurate VAT records matters. It helps you file on time, support VAT claims, and avoid penalties. If you struggle with deadlines, our tax deadlines support can help you stay ahead of key dates.
Talk to an expert today!

What clients say

Forti Accountants sorted out our VAT returns quickly and explained everything in plain English. I finally feel confident about what we owe and why.

A. Ryan

The C. Fox, Cork
We had missed a VAT deadline and I was panicking. They jumped in, got us compliant again, and set up a system that actually works.

D. Walsh

Owner, Waterford
The e-commerce VAT side was confusing, especially around OSS. Forti Accountants made it clear and helped us get organised for future filings.

S. Murphy

SM Designs, Limerick
I used to dread VAT time. Now it is a straightforward process, and I can focus on client work instead of chasing receipts.

M. Byrne

Tech Consultant, Galway

Frequently Asked Questions

Late VAT returns can trigger interest and penalties, and they can increase the risk of Revenue queries later. If you are behind, we can help you get back on track and put a simple system in place so deadlines do not keep catching you out.
Yes. We support Irish businesses that sell to EU customers, including VAT treatment and reporting such as VIES where applicable. If you sell online across borders, we can also advise on OSS and IOSS requirements where relevant.
Yes. We prepare the figures from properly reconciled records, confirm the VAT position with you, and then file the return through ROS.
Yes. We help you claim VAT where you are entitled to, and we make sure the records and invoices are stored correctly to support the claim if Revenue ever asks.
Yes. If you want VAT to be straightforward, clean bookkeeping is the foundation. We can manage this through our online bookkeeping service.

Get In Touch

Ready to hand over your VAT returns?

If you want accurate VAT returns, clear answers, and less admin every month, we would love to help. Book a free VAT consultation and we will outline the next steps based on how your business trades.