Batch Filing
Efficiently file VAT returns for multiple clients in a single workflow.
When to Use Batch Filing
- End of filing period approaching
- Multiple clients with same deadline
- Streamlining quarterly filing process
- Reducing repetitive tasks
Accessing Batch Filing
Navigate to Firm Portal > Batch Filing from the main menu.
Batch Filing Workflow
Step 1: Select Clients
The batch filing dashboard shows all clients with returns ready for filing:
| Column | Description |
|---|---|
| Client | Business name |
| Period | Filing period (e.g., Q3 2024) |
| Status | Ready, Needs Review, Not Ready |
| Net VAT | Amount payable/refundable |
| Validation | Pass/Warning/Error count |
Filter Options:
- By filing period
- By status (Ready only)
- By staff assignment
- By compliance score
Step 2: Review Validation
Before adding to the batch, review each client's validation status:
- Green checkmark - All validations passed
- Yellow warning - Review recommended
- Red error - Must resolve before filing
Click on any client to view detailed validation results.
Step 3: Create Batch
- Select clients using checkboxes
- Click Add to Batch
- Review batch summary
- Confirm batch creation
Step 4: Process Batch
The batch processor:
- Generates each return
- Runs final validation
- Prepares filing packages
- Creates audit records
Progress Tracking:
- Real-time progress bar
- Per-client status updates
- Error highlighting
- Completion notification
Step 5: Review Results
After processing:
- View successful filings
- Address any failures
- Download filing confirmations
- Generate batch report
Batch Queue Management
Queue Status
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Pending | Waiting to process |
| Processing | Currently being filed |
| Completed | Successfully filed |
| Failed | Error occurred |
| Cancelled | Removed from queue |
Managing the Queue
- Reorder clients in queue
- Remove clients from batch
- Pause/resume processing
- Retry failed filings
Compliance Status Aggregation
View aggregate metrics across your batch:
- Total clients in batch
- Total net VAT payable
- Average compliance score
- Validation pass rate
Best Practices
Before Batch Filing
- Run validation on all clients - Catch issues early
- Resolve blocking errors - Remove clients not ready
- Review warnings - Address where possible
- Confirm filing periods - Ensure correct periods selected
During Batch Filing
- Monitor progress - Watch for failures
- Don't navigate away - Let batch complete
- Note any issues - For follow-up
After Batch Filing
- Download confirmations - Keep records
- Update client files - Note filing completion
- Address any failures - Process individually
- Generate batch report - For internal records
Scheduling Batch Filing
Set up recurring batch filing schedules:
- Go to Settings > Report Scheduling
- Create new schedule
- Select "Batch Filing Preparation"
- Set frequency and timing
- Configure notification preferences
Reporting
Generate reports on batch filing activity:
- Batch History - All batch filing sessions
- Client Filing History - Per-client filing record
- Staff Performance - Filings by team member
- Compliance Trends - Batch compliance over time