Can i use quickbooks online to file a vat return with hmrc?

You definitely can, @DanCreat. I’d be glad to walk you through the process of submitting your VAT return in QuickBooks Online.

To submit the VAT return directly to HMRC from QBO, follow these instructions below:

1. On the left pane, select Taxes and navigate to the VAT tab.
2. Choose Submit return to view your open return.
3. Review the dates and figures.
4. Once verified, pick File online with HMRC.
5. Enter your Government Gateway User ID and Government Gateway Password.
6. Click Yes, I want to proceed. 

Once done, QBO will send your VAT return to HMRC. You'll be able to see a notification confirming that your return has landed safely once it has been received. The status will then change to Approved by HMRC after the VAT filing is successful.

In addition, the Chart of Accounts includes input and output tax accounts for the default tax authorities produced by QuickBooks. The output tax account is credited when you enter an invoice. The input tax account is debited when you enter a bill.

You’ll want to check out these resources from the UK to learn more about submitting a VAT return in the program: 

• File your sales tax return and record tax payments in QuickBooks Online
• Submit a MTD for VAT Return to HMRC in QuickBooks Online

I've also added this link to help you manage your taxes in QBO: Tax for QuickBooks Online. It covers topics such as tax filing and payment, applying sales tax to transactions, and managing VAT rates.

Please return to this thread and let us know if you require additional support managing your VAT returns. The community is always open for you. Have a wonderful day.