VAT setup

You must connect IRIS Elements to HMRC to allow data to be passed between Elements and HMRC. This only needs to be done once.

Don't forget - you'll also need to add any necessary tax information to individual client records before being able to submit VAT returns.

  1. On the cog icon, select Settings, then select Connections.

  2. On the HMRC VAT/MTD tab, for each option select Authorise Access.

Connect to HMRC VAT services

HMRC Pre populations APIs – retrieves self-assessment information that HMRC holds on your clients, such as employment income and National Insurance.

MTD VAT – connects to HMRC APIs so you can complete and submit VAT returns.

MTD ITSA – retrieves information and submits to HMRC under the new Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (MTD ITSA). This option is only available for those currently within the HMRC pilot.

  1. On the HMRC website, select Continue, then Sign in to Government Gateway and enter your Government Gateway credentials.

    Make sure you enter your Agent Services ID and not your Government Gateway ID. You may be asked to go through additional questions to confirm your identity - don't worry, this is standard procedure.

  2. Select Give permission.

    Permission is granted for 18 months, so this process will need to be repeated at the end of the period. Select Disable access to HMRC data to disable access.

  3. The connection is made and you'll return to the Connections for user page. It's a good idea to set up your online filing passwords (Government Gateway credentials) so you don't have to log in each time you submit a tax return.