How this works
The periodic VAT return settles your VAT: it adds up the VAT you charged customers (output VAT) and subtracts the VAT you paid on business purchases (input VAT). The difference is what you hand to the State — or, if negative, a credit in your favour. How often you file (quarterly or monthly) and the dates depend on your turnover and the period, under articles 41.º and 27.º of the VAT Code.
- 1
Output VAT (on sales)
The VAT you charged your customers. Enter a total or break it down by rate: 23% (standard), 13% (intermediate) and 6% (reduced). The VAT for each rate is the net base times the percentage.
- 2
Input VAT (on purchases)
The VAT you paid on purchases and expenses tied to your activity that the law lets you deduct. Some costs are limited or blocked (light vehicles, meals, tobacco, entertainment).
- 3
VAT to pay, or a credit
VAT to pay = output VAT − input VAT. If it is positive, that is what you pay the State. If it is negative, you have a credit to carry to the next period (or to claim as a refund, within the rules).
- 4
Frequency and calendar
Under article 41.º, it is quarterly if last year’s turnover was below €650,000 and monthly at or above that. The return is filed by the 20th of the 2nd month after the period; payment is due by the 25th of that same month (article 27.º). There is a summer exception: the June (monthly) and 2nd-quarter returns are filed by 20 September, with payment by 25 September.
Frequently asked
How is this different from the VAT calculator?
The VAT calculator adds or removes VAT on a single price (say, the 23% VAT on €100). This tool settles the whole period: it totals the VAT you charged on sales, subtracts what you deducted on purchases, and tells you how much to hand over — and by when. It is the figure that goes on the periodic return, not the VAT on one invoice.
What counts as deductible input VAT?
As a rule, the VAT you paid on goods and services used in your taxed activity. There are exceptions with limited or fully blocked deduction — passenger cars, fuel (with its own rules), meals, drinks, tobacco and entertainment. Keep invoices with your NIF and check each case.
What if input VAT is larger than output VAT?
You have a VAT credit in your favour. Normally you carry it to the next period, offsetting the VAT due. You can ask for a refund once the credit hits certain limits or when you cease activity, but there are specific conditions and deadlines. Even with a credit, you must still file the return on time.
How do I know if I file quarterly or monthly?
It depends on last calendar year’s turnover: below €650,000 you file quarterly, at or above it monthly (article 41.º). Anyone in the quarterly regime may opt into monthly. For the full picture, use the "Which VAT Regime Applies?" tool.
Do deadlines shift for weekends or holidays?
Yes. If the 20th or the 25th falls on a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day. This calendar shows the rule dates (the 20th to file, the 25th to pay) and does not adjust for holidays — always confirm on the Portal das Finanças.
DISCLAIMER
The figures and deadlines are those of the 2026 regime (€650,000 periodicity threshold; filing by the 20th and payment by the 25th of the 2nd following month, articles 41.º and 27.º of the CIVA) and may change by law. The tool does the simple output-minus-input VAT settlement and shows the rule calendar; it does not handle adjustments, pro rata, reverse charge, intra-EU operations, exports, refund conditions or weekend/holiday shifts. Not tax advice — confirm on the Portal das Finanças or with a certified accountant.