Start with the bookkeeping mode
Document-Led can use the supported invoice/cash VAT workflows configured for the client. Bank-Led uses Cash VAT because the bank is the primary accounting record. Do not switch mode merely to obtain a different VAT result.
Registration and effective dates
Enter the VAT registration/effective date accurately so pre-registration and non-VAT periods are not treated as if the client were VAT registered. Where a change applies from a specific date, use the effective date rather than rewriting earlier transactions.
Enter the first VAT period manually when needed
If the VAT registration date is historic and Balansix is taking over later, create the first VAT period you want Balansix to manage. Balansix accepts that manually entered first period even though earlier historical VAT periods existed outside Balansix.
Scheme selection
Choose the configured Standard, Cash or Flat Rate workflow that matches the client. For Flat Rate cases, also confirm the relevant Flat Rate settings before preparation. See Flat Rate VAT.