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Connecting accounting software

Import VAT figures from a file

Use a CSV file of VAT totals instead of connecting accounting software.

Last reviewed 27 October 2026

If you do not connect ERPNext, you can supply the VAT figures for a period as a CSV file.

How

  1. Go to VAT Returns and choose New VAT return.
  2. Choose the return you're filing. Only the periods HMRC has open for your business are listed, so the period and its dates always match HMRC's.
  3. Under Where do the figures come from?, choose A VAT figures file (CSV).
  4. Drag a CSV file onto the box, or choose a file. The file has two columns, field and value. If the file names a period, it must be the one you chose.
  5. Choose Import.

Onzli calculates the return from the totals in the file and records a fingerprint of the file, so you can see later exactly what was used.

A file import contains totals only. It does not carry invoice-level detail, so there is no per-invoice provenance to show.

Importing the same data twice

If you import identical data for a period that already has a return, nothing changes: the existing return, including any approval, is left as it was. You are told it was already imported.

If you really do want to recalculate, you must tick the confirmation and choose Recalculate anyway. This makes a new calculation version, cancels any approval (which must then be given again), and runs every normal check again. A return that has already been filed, or is being submitted, cannot be recalculated.

Connect ERPNext

Connect a read-only ERPNext account so Onzli can read your figures.

Connect Xero

Connect your Xero organisation, read-only, so Onzli can read your invoices and bills.

Resolving validation errors

How to read the checks on a return and what to do about each kind.