Register

HMRC error messages · VAT

PERIOD_KEY_INVALID

The period key, HMRC's reference for the VAT period, is not a valid key.

HMRC's message · HTTP 400
Invalid period key

When it appears

Submitting or viewing a VAT return.

What to check

  • That the return was prepared from the obligation HMRC returned, and the key was not typed in.

How to fix it

Refresh the client's VAT obligations and prepare the return from the open one.

Making Tax Digital in Accountin

Accountin shows HMRC's code and message next to a plain explanation, and keeps HMRC's reply against every submission.

Register your practice