In broad terms, a business using the flat rate scheme (FRS) charges output tax at the standard rate, but only accounts for it to HMRC at a specified FRS percentage - keeping the difference. But the snag is that they can’t claim input tax on most of their purchases. There are also rules to prevent traders that don’t incur much VAT from benefiting unfairly from the FRS.

Early on in the pandemic the government cut the FRS percentages for accommodation businesses, e.g. hotels, pubs and catering services. However, these cuts were temporary. As of 1 October 2021, each of the three rates has increased, albeit not back to their original level as yet. The rates are now as follows (previous figure in brackets):

• Accommodation businesses 5.5% (0%)
• Pubs 4% (1%)
• Catering services including restaurants and takeaways 8.5% (4.5%).

These percentage rates will apply until 31 March 2022, when it is expected that they will return to their pre-pandemic levels of 10.5%, 6.5% and 12.5% respectively.