Does QuickBooks pay the fines for late filing of VAT returns due their systems being off line ???

Welcome back to the QuickBooks Community, templaraccountin. I'll be sharing details on how filing VAT returns in QuickBooks works. Let me also route you to the right person to assist you further.

QBO only tracks your payment due dates in one place so you can avoid late returns, surcharges, and penalties. Filing and submitting your VAT return is done through MTD using functional-compatible software that can connect directly to HMRC. QuickBook is therefore reliant on HMRC's service availability.

Please know that there's an undergoing scheduled maintenance in HMRC from Oct 6 to Oct 9, 2023. Due to this, you will be unable to access some services like filing VAT returns and this is the reason why the QuickBooks system is offline. You can open this link to see extra details.

Furthermore, I recommend contacting the HMRC Support Team. They can provide additional information about the maintenance. They can also provide instructions on how to file your VAT return on time and explain the penalties for late filing if the problem on their end is not resolved by /10/20023.

Lastly, refer to this article if you need troubleshooting steps on how you can fix different error messages when you submit a return: Fix MTD issues and errors in QuickBooks Online.

I've got your back if you have some follow-up questions about managing your VAT in QuickBooks, templaraccountin. Have a good one.