Do I have to link my bank account in order to submit a VAT return? I'm having problems doing this.

Hi there, Elizabeth 5.

Welcome to the QuickBooks Community. I'll be sharing details on how submitting VAT return works in QuickBooks. Then, ensure you're able to achieve this matter smoothly.

When submitting a VAT Return in QuickBooks Online, there are things that need to be done so you can begin your submission. Please see the details below.

• Set up VAT in QuickBooks
• Sign up for MTD with HMRC
• Turn on the MTD feature and authorise QuickBooks to interact with HMRC

With the information mentioned above, linking your bank account to your QuickBooks account isn't necessary. As long as you've set up and managed your VAT details, you're good to submit a VAT return.

Additionally, after the submission, it’s important to record every time money goes in or out of your bank account so that your books balance at the end of each tax year. Then, you can submit your next VAT return with QuickBooks Online accurately.

On the other hand, when you link your account in QBO, there are possibilities that you can't find or connect your financial institution. However, there are some steps you can take to make sure that you can find the right one and link it to the program. You can open this article to see further details and how to perform the process: Find your bank or credit card account when you connect to online banking.

Lastly, you may refer to this article to see steps on how you can run a specific report that shows transactions that are included in each box on the VAT return: VAT Detail Report.

Let me know if you need further assistance in managing your VAT return in QuickBooks Online. I'm always here to help you out, Elizabeth 5. Have a nice day!