Happy VAT day :)
Today I had to pay my VAT bill. Well, to be more exact, I had to pay it some time ago, but because I’m currently living in New Zealand, but registered in the UK, I have to submit and pay my UK VAT for my company still.
Anyways, for some time I thought I paid it. I paid it late, but I paid it. Some months ago I phoned up and told them my situation, and they were very helpful (very good customer service! ). They had to resend my VAT bill out to my father, who then had to wait for me to give him the details, and then he had to post to them. Long winded process!
I called again today, only to find out they never received the letter bizarrely. *gulp*
I had been in fear of fines, and even court dates in my naive imagination. However, there are very tolerant, and very understanding in my recently acquired experience.
They helped me register there and then online, telling me the details I needed to enter, including the last VAT amount I entered.
I quickly submitted the two months I had been missing, and that was that!…. almost! I still need to pay the balance of my actual VAT debt, which is about £70. Much relief, it could have been so much worse.
Imagine living in the time of Robin Hood, and no paying your taxes on time.. not nearly so much leniency and very much less conciliatory customer service one would expect 
