HMRC VAT Inspector - what level to start on?

surreylights

Hi,title says it all. I've been a VAT Inspector with HMRC for 16 years. I don't have a professional qualification and am unsure what Level of AAT I should start at. Advice greatly appreciated! I need to escape HMRC and need a proper route, hopefully into practice.

CeeJaySix

Level 2 unless you have a good grasp of debits/credits and basic accounting practices.

That said, I wouldn't be surprised if a practice would take you on in their VAT team without needing further qualifications as you clearly have a lot of experience in that field!

surreylights

Thanks. I would prefer to have the AAT back up as its a tough old world!

AAT_Team

Hi @surreylights we have a skills check tool here that might help?

https://www.aat.org.uk/find-a-course/aat-qualifications-and-courses/aat-accounting-qualifications/aat-skillcheck

Thanks

surreylights

Thanks guys. I have done the skills check- I scored low on the basic stuff (e.g double entry book-keeping) but high on more difficult stuff.

People say I will be snapped up by a practice - I am not so sure!!

CeeJaySix

Trust me, one thing clients will always need is expertise in dealing with the inspectors when they come a-knocking. There is no better placed person for that than someone who has been on the other side. I think you'll be surprised.