VAT-Compliant Accounting

1. VAT Records Management

Businesses must ensure sales and purchase records are VAT-ready for accurate tax reporting.

  • Record-Keeping: Companies must maintain detailed invoices, receipts, and transaction logs to comply with VAT regulations.
  • Compliance Standards: VAT records must align with local tax laws to avoid penalties.
  • Audit Readiness: Proper documentation ensures businesses are prepared for tax audits by authorities.

2. Tax Invoice Preparation

Businesses must issue VAT-compliant invoices that meet regulatory requirements.

  • Mandatory Details: Invoices must include supplier and customer details, invoice number, VAT rate, and total amount payable.
  • Formatting Rules: The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) requires invoices to clearly display “Tax Invoice” and follow specific formatting guidelines.
  • Penalty Risks: Incorrect invoices may result in fines of up to AED 5,000 per invoice.

3. Input/Output VAT Reconciliation

Tracking payable and receivable VAT ensures seamless tax filing.

  • Input VAT: Businesses can reclaim VAT paid on purchases and expenses.
  • Output VAT: Companies must collect VAT on sales and services and remit it to tax authorities.
  • Reconciliation Process: Businesses must compare VAT collected vs. VAT paid to determine tax liabilities.