General information
According to HMRC, if an app or website links buyers and sellers to proviFde goods or services, it will be included in this category.
Furthermore, the platform needs to store or readily compute the amount paid to sellers, even if that is done through a third party.
If a platform is based in the UK, is managed there, or is incorporated under UK law, it must register as a digital platform with HMRC. Even if they have no sellers that need to be reported, they must still register as a reporting platform (this is known as an excluded platform).
Sellers who provide or receive payment for goods or services and who either reside in the UK or oversee rental properties there must be reported by digital platforms.
Sellers are exempt from reporting to HMRC if they earn less than £1,700 for fewer than 30 sales annually. This is because their sales may not be taxable income, though we always advise consulting your adviser, and they are unlikely to be regarded as trading (see our earlier blog on the factors HMRC considers when determining trading status).
Other news from United Kingdom
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United Kingdom
Author: Ema Stamenković
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New document was uploaded: Online Sales in the United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Author: Ema Stamenković
This document aims to explain how online sales are handled in the UK. In the UK, there are various requirements for online sales, which implies that there are specific requirements that must be fulfilled according to The Consumer Rights Act 2015, The Consumer Contracts Regulations and The Electronic Commerce (EC Directive) Regulations 2002. Read more
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United Kingdom
Author: Ema Stamenković
The UK may extend the Deemed Supplier model to all online marketplace sellers, impacting VAT collection. Proposed changes eliminate the VAT threshold, risking business viability and causing price inflation. The new model complicates VAT compliance while favouring larger platforms, potentially reducing competition and consumer choice. Careful consideration of these consequences is essential before... Read more
HMRC Revises Procedure for Amending VAT Mistakes
United Kingdom
Author: Ema Stamenković
HMRC has digitalized its VAT error correction process, replacing form VAT652 with an online system for improved efficiency. Errors under £10,000 or between £10,000 and £50,000 (less than 1% of total sales) can be adjusted in VAT returns. Exceeding thresholds must be reported directly to HMRC. Businesses use Government Gateway credentials for online corrections, while VAT-exempt businesses may noti... Read more
Reverse Charge and Self-Supply VAT Overview
United Kingdom
Author: Ema Stamenković
In certain situations, customers must account for VAT due, such as purchasing services from overseas suppliers, deregistering goods with claimed input tax, applying the domestic reverse charge (DRC), and supplying mobile phones/computer chips. Failure to do so can result in HMRC penalties and interest. Simple accounting entries can resolve these issues, but accurate recording is crucial for avoidi... Read more
Understanding VAT in the UK: A Practical Guide for Beginners
United Kingdom
Author: Ema Stamenković
VAT is a UK tax on goods and services, with rates ranging from 20% to 0%. Businesses must register if their taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in the past 12 months, acquire a VAT-registered business as a going concern, or purchase goods or services VAT-free from non-UK countries. Exceptions include unregistered supplies, zero-rated supplies, and exempt supplies. Businesses must maintain accurate VA... Read more