Value Added Tax (VAT) is a common source of confusion for new limited company owners. Many wonder if they are automatically registered for VAT when they register their company.

The answer is a resounding no. Here at Your Company Formations, we want to ensure you understand VAT and its separate registration process.

Company Registration vs. VAT Registration: Understanding the Difference

Incorporating your company at Companies House is a distinct process from registering for VAT with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). While we, as a formation agent, can incorporate your limited company, VAT registration is a separate step you will need to take directly with HMRC.

Here is why they are not connected:

• HMRC notification: Companies House does notify HMRC when you register your company. However, this is simply to acknowledge the new company's existence and assign a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), which will be used for future tax communications.
• VAT registration trigger: VAT registration hinges on your company's taxable turnover, not its incorporation date. You must register for VAT if your taxable turnover exceeds the current threshold (which is currently £85,000 as of April 1, 2023; it will rise from £85,000 to £90,000 as of April 2024).

This distinction is crucial. Even if you don't currently anticipate exceeding the VAT threshold, it is still wise to understand the implications and potential benefits of voluntary VAT registration.

Understanding VAT Registration Thresholds and Requirements

Value Added Tax (VAT) is a tax levied on the supply of most goods and services in the UK. Businesses registered for VAT must charge VAT on their taxable sales and account for it to HMRC.

VAT Registration Threshold:

• Compulsory Registration: You are legally obligated to register for VAT if your taxable turnover surpasses £90,000 (as of April 1, 2024) in the past 12 months or if you anticipate exceeding this amount within the next 30 days.
• Turnover Calculation: This 12-month period is rolling, meaning it's not tied to the tax year. It can be any consecutive 12 months, such as from September of one year to August of the next.

Important Update: VAT Registration Thresholds will increase from April 2024. Announced in the Spring Budget 2024, the VAT registration and deregistration thresholds will see an upward adjustment starting April 1, 2024.

What's Changing?

• Registration Threshold Increase: The fundamental change involves the 12-month taxable turnover threshold that dictates VAT registration requirements. This threshold will rise from £85,000 to £90,000. Simply put, businesses with a taxable turnover below £90,000 in the preceding year (or those not expecting to surpass this amount in the next 30 days) won't be obligated to register for VAT.
• Deregistration Threshold Increase: The threshold for deregistering from VAT is also being adjusted upwards. Previously, businesses with a taxable turnover falling below £83,000 within 12 months could apply for deregistration. This threshold will now be set at £88,000.

If your business currently falls within the VAT registration bracket (turnover exceeding £85,000), this change won't directly impact your VAT status. However, businesses hovering near the threshold or those experiencing fluctuating turnovers may benefit from recalculating their VAT liability under the new guidelines.

Deregistration might become an option for companies currently VAT-registered but with a turnover dipping below the new £88,000 threshold. This can simplify tax administration and potentially improve cash flow.

We recommend reviewing your VAT registration status to assess your current and projected taxable turnover in light of the increased thresholds.

Voluntary Registration:

• Businesses with a taxable turnover below the threshold are not mandated to register for VAT. However, some choose to do so voluntarily. We will explore the advantages of voluntary registration in a later section.

VAT Returns and Payments:

• Once VAT-registered, companies must submit quarterly VAT returns to HMRC outlining the VAT they have collected and paid out. If their VAT liability is significant, they can switch to monthly returns.

The benefits of VAT registration

While VAT registration might seem like an administrative burden at first sight, it can unlock a lot of benefits for your business; both mandatory and voluntary registrants can reap these rewards:

• VAT Reclaim Advantage: One of the most significant perks is the ability to reclaim VAT on eligible purchases. This essentially means recovering the VAT you pay on goods and services acquired from other VAT-registered businesses. This can lead to substantial cost savings, especially for companies with high expenditures on materials, equipment, or other business inputs.
• Enhanced Credibility: VAT registration can elevate your brand image. Many potential customers and business partners associate VAT registration with established and successful companies. This perception of size and stability can give you a competitive edge in attracting new clients and establishing lucrative collaborations.
• Investor Appeal: VAT registration can be persuasive for businesses seeking investment. The potential for increased cash flow through VAT-inclusive pricing can make your company more attractive to potential investors.
• Improved Financial Discipline: The VAT registration process necessitates meticulous record-keeping. This translates to a more organised and accurate financial management system for your business. The discipline instilled by VAT compliance can benefit your overall financial health and decision-making.

A Word on Voluntary Registration:

Businesses operating below the VAT threshold can still choose to register voluntarily. Weighing the advantages outlined above against the additional administrative tasks involved is crucial for making an informed decision about voluntary registration.

What happens if you don’t register for VAT?

Understanding VAT registration requirements is crucial for businesses exceeding the taxable turnover threshold. Here is a breakdown of key points to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

Registration Triggers:

• Threshold Exceeded: Companies are not automatically VAT-registered upon reaching the threshold. However, registration becomes mandatory within 30 days of the end of the month if your taxable turnover surpasses £85,000 (£90,000 as of April 2024).
• Anticipated Threshold Crossing: If your business anticipates exceeding the threshold within the next 30 days, proactive registration is required before the 30-day period ends.

Failure to register on time can result in penalties imposed by HMRC. The duration of the delay determines the penalty amount:

• Up to 9 months late: 5% of the total VAT owed, plus the VAT itself that should have been paid. (Minimum penalty of £50 applies)
• Between 9 and 18 months late: 10% of the total VAT owed, plus the VAT itself that should have been paid.
• Over 18 months late: 15% of the total VAT owed, plus the VAT itself that should have been paid.

Taking Action:

• Monitor your turnover: Regularly monitor your taxable turnover to identify potential threshold breaches and ensure timely registration if necessary.
• Seek professional guidance: If you have doubts or require assistance navigating VAT regulations, it is highly recommended that you consult with a qualified accountant.

By staying informed and registering for VAT promptly, you can avoid financial penalties and ensure your business complies with HMRC regulations.

How to register for VAT

Exceeding the VAT threshold (£85,000 or £90,000 as of April 2024) triggers the need for VAT registration. Here, we explore the available methods for registering your limited company:

1) Online Registration with HMRC:

Registering directly with HMRC is an option for those comfortable navigating the online system. You will need to have the following information readily available:

• Government Gateway Login: A Government Gateway ID and password are essential for accessing HMRC online services.
• Company Details: Basic company information like name, nature of business, and registration number will be required.
• Financial Information: Turnover figures, bank details, and details related to Corporation Tax, pay-as-you-earn (PAYE), or Self-Assessment (if applicable) will be needed.

2) VAT Registration Made Easy - Our Expert Service:

We understand VAT registration can be a complex process. If navigating the online system or compiling the required information seems daunting, our VAT Registration Service can provide a stress-free solution.

What We Offer:

• Seamless Process: Simply click "Get Now," enter the necessary details, proceed to checkout, and complete the payment of £60 + VAT.
• Expert Guidance: After payment confirmation, you will receive a detailed form to complete. Our team will ensure that all information is accurate and compliant.
• HMRC Submission: We will submit your VAT application to HMRC through a secure Government Gateway account.
• Registration Confirmation: HMRC will send your company's VAT registration number and certificate directly to your registered business address once approved.

Uncertainties? We are Here to Help

If you need further details about our VAT Registration Service or have any VAT-related inquiries, don't hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is happy to assist you and ensure a smooth VAT registration process for your limited company.

In Conclusion

This guide has shed light on the intricacies of VAT registration for limited companies. We have debunked the myth of automatic VAT registration and explored the key aspects:

• Independent Process: VAT registration is separate from company formation. You can register upon exceeding the threshold or voluntarily choose to do so beforehand.
• Registration Triggers: Threshold exceedance or anticipation of exceeding it within 30 days mandates registration.
• Benefits and Considerations: Voluntary registration offers advantages like VAT reclaim and improved credibility, but also entails additional administrative tasks.

Understanding these factors will help you to make informed decisions about VAT registration for your limited company. We encourage you to carefully consider your circumstances and weigh the potential benefits against the administrative requirements.

Our team of experts is readily available if you require further guidance or assistance with the VAT registration process. We offer a streamlined VAT registration service and can answer any VAT-related questions you may have.

Thank you for reading. We wish you continued success with your limited company!

Recommended further reading:

An annual return is a document that registered companies must provide. For more information, read our post: What is a company annual return?

A shareholder agreement establishes the relationship between shareholders and how the company should be run. To learn more, read our post: What is a shareholders agreement?