19/06/2023
VAT update
Charities that are registered for VAT should be aware that from the start of this year the way penalties are issued for submitting late VAT returns and for paying VAT late have been amended. A new points-based system has been introduced which is designed to be more lenient for the occasional error but still penalises those who repeatedly fail to comply with their obligations. Changes have also been introduced to the way interest is changed on the late payments and repayment of VAT.
Gov.uk: VAT penalties and interest
VAT Notice 708 Buildings and Construction has been updated to provide clarity on the use of a building as ‘village hall’ in respect of the Relevant Charitable Purpose relief for constructing buildings for certain charitable purposes, setting our key conditions that must be adhered to if the relief is to be available so that construction work can be zero-rated
Gov.uk: Buildings and construction (VAT Notice 708)
There has been confirmation that the Listed Place of Worship Grant Scheme will be extended through to 31 March 2025. The scheme provides grants that cover the VAT incurred in making repairs to listed buildings in use as places of worship, supporting the effective conservation of these sites.
UK Parliament: Religious Buildings: VAT