I can't connect to hmrc for vat.

Hello, @rosstaylor100.

Thanks for dropping by here in the Community space. I'll share some troubleshooting steps to help you fix the HMRC connection issue.

Let's start by verifying your government gateway login credentials. Your new MTD login information will be included in an email confirmation that you get after registering for MTD for VAT and HMRC accepting your application. Within three days, you should hear from HMRC with confirmation. You'll use these credentials to authorise QuickBooks Online and connect to HMRC.

Locate the email by searching your inbox or spam/junk folder for an email sent to you by:

• Government Gateway
• no-reply@access.service.gov.uk
• noreply@tax.services.gov.uk

Contact HMRC immediately if you're still having trouble finding the email. Make sure you have your VAT registration number and HMRC registered postcode available since you will be required to confirm your info.

For other troubleshooting steps you can perform, please check out this article: How to fix MTD issues and errors in QuickBooks Online.

If the issue persists, a cache-related problem is probably preventing you from connecting to the HMRC website to submit your VAT return. That said, I suggest performing the steps through a private/incognito window as it will not save any history, making it a good place to identify browser problems: 

• Google Chrome: Ctrl + Shift + N.
• Mozilla Firefox: Ctrl + Shift + P.
• Safari (for new versions): Command + Shift + N.

From there, log in to your QBO account, then connect to the HMRC website. If you're able to process your returns, go back to your regular browser and clear its cache. Clearing the cache or cookies is the best way to get a clean slate for your browser. Otherwise, using other supported browsers can be a good alternative too.

If you'd like to review the process of submitting your VAT returns to the HMRC, you can visit this article: Submit a MTD for VAT return to HMRC in QuickBooks Online. 

Keep in touch if you have further questions about submitting VAT returns. I'll be happy to lend a helping hand. Keep safe!