Tax and VAT Registrations in the UK - Simplify your compliance

VAT registration requirements depend on where the business is established:

• UK-based businesses must register for VAT once taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any 12-month period

• Non-UK businesses making taxable supplies in the UK must register for VAT from the first sale — there is no threshold

VAT registration is mandatory once these conditions are met.

Our service includes: submission of the VAT application to HMRC, delivery of your VAT number and registration certificate electronically, and advice on the suitable VAT scheme such as Flat Rate or Cash Accounting.

HMRC usually processes VAT applications in 30–40 days, though times may vary. We keep you informed and assist with any follow-up requirements during this period.

Yes. An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is required for businesses that import or export goods between the UK and EU or non-EU countries. It’s essential for customs declarations.

Our team can secure your EORI number within 3 working days, provided all the required details are accurate and complete.

Yes. Once registered, you can reclaim VAT on eligible business expenses and goods purchased for your business, even on purchases made before registration in some cases.

Yes. If a non-UK business makes taxable supplies in the UK, VAT registration is required from the first sale, with no threshold.

Yes. Sole traders and partnerships must register for VAT if they exceed the threshold and apply for an EORI number if they engage in import/export activities.

You will receive your VAT number and certificate digitally. We also help you set up a Government Gateway account and comply with Making Tax Digital requirements.

If you register for VAT late, HMRC may backdate your VAT registration to the date you should have registered.

This means:

• You may need to pay VAT on past sales

• You may be charged interest on late VAT payments

• Penalties may apply depending on how late the registration was

Registering as soon as possible reduces penalties and compliance risk.

Yes. HMRC can backdate VAT registration to the point when registration should have taken place.

Backdating is common when:

• The VAT threshold was exceeded earlier

• A non-UK business should have registered from its first UK sale

Backdated registration usually requires submitting VAT returns for the affected periods.

Penalties for failing to register for VAT can include:

• Financial penalties based on the amount of VAT owed

• Interest on unpaid VAT

• Increased penalties for deliberate or repeated non-compliance

It depends on your business and activity:

• UK-based businesses need a UK VAT number once they exceed the VAT threshold

• Non-UK businesses making taxable supplies in the UK usually need a VAT number from the first sale

• Some sales may be VAT-exempt or zero-rated, depending on the goods or services

Each case should be assessed based on business model and customer location.

The most common UK VAT schemes include:

• Standard VAT scheme

• Flat Rate Scheme

• Cash Accounting Scheme

The best scheme depends on:

• Turnover level

• Expense structure

• Type of business (e.g. e-commerce, services)

• Cash-flow needs

Choosing the wrong scheme can increase VAT costs, so professional advice is recommended.

Most UK businesses submit VAT returns quarterly.

In some cases:

• Monthly VAT returns may apply (for example, frequent repayments)

• Annual Accounting Scheme allows one annual return with interim payments

All VAT returns must be submitted digitally under Making Tax Digital (MTD) rules.

You are not legally required to use an accountant for VAT compliance.

However, an accountant helps:

• Ensure correct VAT registration

• Choose the most suitable VAT scheme

• Prepare and submit VAT returns accurately

• Avoid HMRC errors, penalties, and audits

For non-UK businesses and e-commerce sellers, professional VAT support is strongly recommended due to complex UK VAT rules.