Modernisation of the VAT chain: what changes for businesses from 1 May 2026

From 1 May 2026, the Belgian tax administration will introduce a new step in the modernisation of the VAT chain. The aim of this reform is to simplify administrative processes, improve transparency and make the management of VAT payments and credits clearer for businesses.

These changes will directly affect VAT-registered companies. Below is a clear overview of the most important developments.

A new system: the VAT provision account

From the VAT returns relating to April 2026 (or the second quarter of 2026), the current VAT current account will be replaced by a VAT provision account.

This new mechanism will allow the tax administration to manage VAT debts and credits linked to periodic VAT returns in a more structured way.

For businesses, this should result in clearer monitoring of amounts payable or refundable.

End of the summer tolerance period

Until now, a summer tolerance period allowed some flexibility regarding certain VAT obligations.

This regime will be abolished from 2026.

However, following discussions with the ITAA, the tax administration has indicated that penalties will be applied more flexibly during the transitional period in 2026, allowing businesses and accountants time to adapt to the new system.

Centralised management via MyMinfin

A positive change is that companies will be able to manage and monitor their VAT position through MyMinfin.

Through this platform, businesses will be able to consult and manage:

• VAT payments
• available VAT credits
• offsets and allocations carried out by the tax administration

This centralised system should improve transparency and provide a clearer overview of each company’s tax position.

New bank account for VAT payments

From 1 May 2026, VAT payments must be made to the following new bank account:

BE41 6792 0036 4210

Businesses should update their payment instructions or accounting software in time to avoid transfer errors or late payments.

Changes to VAT refund rules

The rules regarding VAT refunds are also being updated.

• A refund requested through the periodic VAT return will only be possible up to the amount reported in box 72 of the VAT return.
• Any remaining credit available on the VAT provision account can still be requested through MyMinfin.

What happens to the balance of the current VAT account?

On 30 April 2026, the balance of the current VAT account will be transferred to the new system.

Two situations are possible:

1️⃣ All VAT returns have been submitted

The full balance will be automatically transferred to the VAT provision account.

2️⃣ One or more VAT returns are missing

Businesses will still have a few weeks to regularise the situation.

After that, the tax administration will determine whether the balance should be refunded or offset against outstanding tax debts.

This reform aims to create a more modern and transparent VAT administration. For most businesses, the practical impact will remain limited, but a few adjustments are recommended:

• update the new VAT payment bank account
• monitor your VAT position via MyMinfin
• take into account the new refund rules

Your accounting firm is closely monitoring this reform and will ensure that the transition is handled smoothly for its clients.