On Monday 22 May 2023, HMRC closed its VAT registration helpline. This was a subsidiary of the VAT helpline and was dedicated specifically to helping customers who have concerns about their VAT registration application.
Advisers from the VAT registration helpline will be redeployed to spend their time processing VAT registration applications instead of answering calls.
Over 85% of calls to the VAT registration helpline were from customers who wanted an update on the progress of their applications. HMRC says that their staff spent most of their time talking to customers about submitted applications. Because this information is already available online, the Revenue believes this time can be better used to process these applications instead.
If you go to the gov.uk website, you will be able to check when you can expect a reply from HMRC regarding your submitted application.
They currently state that applicants can expect a reply within 40 working days. If it has been less than 40 days since you’ve submitted your application, HMRC asks you not to contact them.
If you submitted an application more than 40 working days ago, or are replying to a request for further information (VAT 5), you can use the dedicated email inbox, vrs.newregistrations@hmrc.gov.uk.
Applicants who have not received a response to their initial application within 40 working days, will receive a reply to their email within five working days.
If you would like help with your VAT, please contact us today.
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