Modernisation of the VAT chain from 1 May 2026: what will change for your business?
April 2026 - The Belgian VAT authorities are currently in the process of modernising the so-called VAT chain. A new phase of this modernisation will begin on 1 May 2026.
The VAT chain encompasses the entire set of rules governing the declaration, payment, audit and refund of VAT. An initial series of changes already came into effect on 1 January 2025, but some elements were postponed because the administration was not yet technically ready. The schedule has now been confirmed: a new phase of this reform will begin on 1 May 2026.
More time for quarterly filers
A first change relates to the deadlines for VAT returns. Businesses that file quarterly returns will now have a little more breathing space. The deadline for both submitting the return and paying the VAT due is shifting
For businesses that file monthly returns, the timing remains unchanged. With this measure, which moves the deadline from the 20th to the 25th of the month following the quarter, the government aims primarily to ease the administrative burden on smaller businesses.
From current account to VAT suspense account
One of the most significant changes is the abolition of the traditional VAT current account. This is being replaced by a new VAT suspense account. The administration centralises all a company’s VAT transactions in this account: amounts payable, credits and the use of those credits.
The system is designed to make the management of VAT credits more transparent. If your business has a VAT credit that is not immediately claimed, it will be credited to this provisional account. From there, it can later be used to pay future VAT liabilities or be claimed at a later date.
The first returns covered by this new system are the April 2026 VAT return for monthly filers and the second quarter of 2026 return for quarterly filers.
VAT refunds: clearer rules
The procedure for VAT refunds is also being amended. From now on, you can only claim the VAT credit arising directly from the periodic VAT return itself via that return. Specifically, this refers to the amount stated in box 72.
If you do not apply for a refund, or if it is not granted, the credit is usually automatically transferred to the VAT suspense account. It can be used or claimed back at a later date.
There is also good news for monthly filers: the accelerated monthly refund scheme will now be automatically applied to all businesses. It is therefore no longer necessary to apply for a separate licence.
You can also pay VAT by direct debit
Since 2025, it has also been possible to pay VAT liabilities by direct debit. This remains a voluntary option, but can be convenient for businesses. It reduces the risk of a payment being made late by mistake.
In addition, new account numbers for VAT payments will be introduced from 1 May 2026. It is therefore important to update payment templates, standing orders and settings in your accounting or ERP system in good time.
Stricter monitoring and potential penalties
In addition to administrative simplifications, the reform also includes stricter compliance rules. In the event of late payment of VAT, proportional fines may be imposed, ranging from 5 to 15 per cent of the amount due.
Furthermore, anyone who repeatedly fails to submit a VAT return runs the risk of the tax authorities drawing up a substitute return themselves. This may happen if no return has been submitted three months after the relevant return period.
Clearer deadlines now also apply to enquiries from the tax authorities: in principle, businesses have one month to respond to a request for information.
What does this mean for your SME?
For many SMEs, the changes are mainly an administrative adjustment. Nevertheless, it is worth reviewing your processes in good time. This includes updating payment settings, monitoring VAT credits via the new commission account, and strictly adhering to the deadlines.
