Be Ready for Any FTA VAT Audit
Independent VAT audit support, from pre-audit review to representation when the FTA comes calling.
FTA VAT Audits: What to Expect
The FTA can select any VAT-registered business for review at any time, either as a desk-based review of submitted returns or a full on-site audit of your records. Businesses are legally required to retain VAT records for five years (fifteen years for real estate-related records), and an audit will test whether your filed returns are fully supported by those records.
Most audit findings come from gaps that were avoidable — missing tax invoices, input VAT claimed without proper documentation, or supplies categorized inconsistently across periods. We review your position before the FTA does, close the gaps we find, and represent you through the audit process itself.
Why You Need VAT Audit Support
An FTA audit that uncovers under-declared VAT results in the tax due plus penalties that can reach 50% of the unpaid amount in cases of deliberate error, on top of daily late-payment penalties. Businesses that respond to FTA information requests without expert guidance often provide more than required, or answer in ways that widen the scope of the audit. Going in prepared, with a specialist managing FTA correspondence, keeps the process controlled.
Documents an FTA VAT Audit Will Require
- VAT return filing history — all returns filed since registration, with supporting workings.
- Tax invoices — both issued and received, matching the amounts declared.
- General ledger and trial balance — to reconcile accounting records against VAT returns.
- Import and export documentation — customs declarations for any cross-border transactions.
- Contracts and agreements — underlying significant transactions the FTA may query.
- Prior FTA correspondence — any previous queries, clarifications or rulings received.
- Pre-audit review of your VAT records and filings
- Identification and correction of discrepancies before the FTA finds them
- Representation during FTA audit visits and calls
- Support responding to FTA information requests
- Guidance on voluntary disclosures where needed
Prepare for an Audit
Book a Free Consultation WhatsApp UsThe Max Master Advantage
FTA-Registered Agents
Represented by licensed tax agents who deal with FTA audits regularly.
Reduced Audit Risk
We catch and fix discrepancies before they become findings.
Dedicated Account Manager
One point of contact throughout the audit process.
Built For
A Simple, Transparent Process
Pre-Audit Review
We review your VAT records and filings for gaps or errors.
Gap Remediation
We correct issues and prepare supporting documentation.
Audit Representation
We represent you directly during the FTA’s audit process.
Follow-Up Support
We handle any follow-up requests until the audit is closed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I’m being audited by the FTA?
You’ll typically receive formal notice from the FTA requesting records or scheduling a visit. We help you respond correctly from the first notice.
What records does the FTA typically request?
Commonly VAT returns, tax invoices, contracts, import/export documentation and general ledgers, depending on the scope of the audit.
Can you represent us during the audit itself?
Yes, our FTA-registered tax agents can represent your business directly during FTA audit engagements.
What if the audit finds errors?
We help you assess the impact and, where appropriate, submit a voluntary disclosure to correct the position.
Walk into your next audit prepared
Talk to our experts today — no obligation, no jargon, just clear advice.