VAT Margin Scheme and Global Accounting Scheme Explained
What is the VAT Margin Scheme and how does Global Accounting differ? Learn how each scheme works, who qualifies, and which one suits your business.
From the AutoVAT team
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Practical guides, tips and news for UK dealers using the VAT Margin Scheme.
Is the VAT Margin Scheme Worth It? Pros, Cons and When to Use It
The VAT Margin Scheme saves most second-hand dealers significant VAT but adds record-keeping duties. An honest look at the pros, cons and when it makes sense.
UK Minimum Wage 2026: Latest Rates and What Employers Must Know
The latest UK minimum wage rates from April 2026 — National Living Wage, apprentice rates, and what employers must do to stay compliant.
UK Tax Deadlines 2026: Self Assessment, Corporation Tax and VAT
Every UK tax deadline for 2026 — Self Assessment, Corporation Tax, VAT returns, payment on account dates — so small businesses never miss a filing.
How Much VAT Do You Pay Under the Margin Scheme? (With Examples)
Wondering how VAT is calculated under the margin scheme? This guide explains the formula with worked examples so you know exactly what you'll owe on each sale.
VAT Margin Scheme for Second-Hand Electronics: A Guide for UK Resellers
Selling refurbished phones or used laptops in the UK? The VAT Margin Scheme can cut your VAT bill significantly. Here's how it works for electronics dealers.
VAT Margin Scheme vs Standard VAT: Which Is Better for Your Business?
The VAT Margin Scheme and standard VAT accounting work very differently. A clear comparison to help second-hand dealers pick the right one.
The VAT Margin Scheme Logic Explained: Why You Only Pay VAT on Profit
A clear explanation of how the VAT Margin Scheme works — the maths, the logic, worked examples, and why HMRC designed it this way for second-hand dealers.
WooCommerce and the VAT Margin Scheme: What UK Dealers Need to Know
Using WooCommerce to sell second-hand goods in the UK? Standard WooCommerce VAT settings are wrong for Margin Scheme dealers. Here's how to set it up correctly.
HMRC VAT Inspection: What to Expect and How to Prepare
What HMRC inspectors look for in a VAT inspection of margin scheme sellers, how to prepare your stock book, and how to make sure your records stand up.
How to Register a Company in the UK: Companies House vs Third Parties
How to register a UK limited company — go direct to Companies House or use a formation agent like Tide. We compare costs, speed, and what's included.
Best Business Bank Accounts for UK Small Businesses in 2026
Comparing the best UK business bank accounts for small businesses in 2026 — free options, features, accounting integrations, and what dealers should look for.
Do You Need an Accountant If You Use the VAT Margin Scheme?
Many second-hand dealers wonder whether they still need an accountant once they have dedicated margin scheme software. Here's an honest answer.
When Do You Need to Register for VAT in the UK?
The UK VAT registration threshold is £90,000. When you must register, when voluntary registration pays off, and how to register with HMRC.
Who Actually Pays VAT — Your Business or Your Customer?
Your business sends VAT to HMRC, but VAT is always paid by the end customer. Here's how and why the system works this way — and what it means for your pricing.
Making Tax Digital for VAT: What Margin Scheme Sellers Need to Know
Making Tax Digital for VAT applies to all VAT-registered businesses, including margin scheme sellers. What it means in practice and how to stay compliant.
VAT on Loss Transactions Under the VAT Margin Scheme
Sell an item for less than you paid? Under the VAT Margin Scheme you owe zero VAT on losses and break-even sales. Here's exactly how it works.
Sole Trader vs Limited Company for Second-Hand Goods Sellers
Thinking about your business structure as a second-hand goods dealer? Here's how sole trader and limited company compare on tax, VAT, liability, and admin.
Global vs Individual Accounting: Which VAT Margin Method Should You Use?
Under the VAT Margin Scheme, you can use global or individual accounting. Learn the difference, which suits your business, and the risks of choosing wrong.
QuickBooks vs AutoVAT for VAT Margin Scheme Sellers
QuickBooks has no native support for the VAT Margin Scheme. Here's how AutoVAT fills that gap for second-hand dealers and integrates with QuickBooks.
Selling Second-Hand Goods on Vinted, Depop or Facebook Marketplace: VAT Rules Explained
Selling second-hand goods on Vinted, Depop, or Facebook Marketplace as a VAT-registered business? Here's how the VAT Margin Scheme applies to marketplace sales.
How to Complete Your VAT Margin Scheme Return
A step-by-step guide to completing your HMRC VAT Margin Scheme return — what figures go where, key deadlines, and what to do if you make a mistake.
VAT Margin Scheme Record-Keeping: What HMRC Expects to See
HMRC has specific record-keeping rules for margin scheme dealers. Exactly what your stock book must contain and how to keep it inspection-ready.
VAT Margin Scheme for Antique Dealers: A Complete Guide
Antique and collectible dealers can save significant VAT by using HMRC's Margin Scheme. Learn what qualifies, what records you need, and common pitfalls.
How to Handle Part-Exchange Deals Under the VAT Margin Scheme
Part-exchange deals are common in motor trade and second-hand retail. Here's how to record them correctly under the VAT Margin Scheme and avoid costly mistakes.
VAT Margin Scheme for Car Dealers: A Complete Guide
Second-hand car dealers are among the biggest users of the VAT Margin Scheme. This guide covers everything specific to the motor trade.
Can You Reclaim Input VAT on Repairs Under the VAT Margin Scheme?
Can margin scheme dealers reclaim VAT on repairs, cleaning or reconditioning costs? The HMRC rules are clear — here's exactly what you can and cannot claim.
VAT Margin Scheme: What Counts as an Eligible Purchase?
Not every second-hand item qualifies for the VAT Margin Scheme. Learn exactly what HMRC counts as an eligible purchase and what disqualifies a stock item.
Xero vs AutoVAT: Why Xero Falls Short for VAT Margin Dealers
Xero is excellent general accounting software — but it has no built-in support for the VAT Margin Scheme. Here's why dedicated tools exist.
How AutoVAT Connects Your eBay Store for VAT Margin Records
Learn how AutoVAT integrates with your eBay seller account to automatically pull sales and purchases into your VAT Margin Scheme stock book.
5 Costly VAT Margin Scheme Mistakes UK Dealers Make
From mixing margin and standard-rated stock to poor record keeping — here are the five mistakes that most often land dealers in trouble with HMRC.
What Is the VAT Margin Scheme and Who Qualifies?
A plain-English guide to HMRC's VAT Margin Scheme — who it's for, how it works, and why it saves second-hand dealers significant tax.