The VAT Consultancy already offers ESSA members an exclusive free members service to help them get to terms with VAT issues, and that service has just got better. The VAT Consultancy has appointed the one of the most knowledgeable men in the business, Mike Barnard, to advise members on TOMS (Tour Operators Margin Scheme) because there are changes to the Tour Operators Margin Scheme (TOMS) that will come into force from 1 January 2010.

“These changes will affect anyone involved in event management, incentive travel and business travel,” says John Crawford, Managing Director of The VAT Consultancy. “Good planning and specialist advice are highly recommended in order to avoid penalties and safeguard profit margins in what is already an incredibly tough climate."

Mike Barnard is acknowledged as being one of the UK’s foremost experts on the Tour Operator’s Margin Scheme. Whilst heading HM Revenue and Custom’s Unit of Expertise on the topic, he was responsible for redrafting the current TOMS Notice so he has the fullest possible understanding of the requirements and what event operators need to do, going forward.

On his appointment Mike said: “I am thrilled at the prospect of working with The VAT Consultancy and the members of ESSA to steer them through these drastic changes. HMR&C have an extremely strict penalty regime now so it’s never been more important to understand what your VAT exposure could be if you get it wrong. ”

ESSA welcomed the support. Chris Skeith from ESSA said: “We know from our members that VAT can be a minefield if you don’t know what you’re doing, and it is brilliant The VAT Consultancy are developing their free member service to all members of ESSA, AEO & AEV. Our advice would be to seek advice from the professionals – get in touch with them today and don’t get caught out!”.

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