Many sellers outside the EU always wonder how to get VAT registered in the UK so we have put together this guide to show you how easy it is...
You must register for VAT if your taxable turnover goes past £85,000 in 12 months. This has to be done within 30 days of passing the threshold.
If you fail to do this you could face a fine so its recommended to voluntarily register for VAT before you hit that mark. By voluntarily registering for VAT it shows that you are ready to grow as a business which create’s a positive impression.
Being VAT registered will also allow you to reclaim input VAT for any purchases made for the business. Being VAT registered can also boost your business profile as it makes your business seem more established and professional. You will also receive a VAT number which can be used on your websites and forms/documents.
Within the UK VAT is 20% on most goods so if you are selling on Amazon and eBay for example, you would need to apply this rate on your products as its the most common VAT rate in the UK. VAT Rates can be found here.
Certain products have different VAT rates which could be at a reduced rate of 5% like children’s clothes, or 0% if your selling books etc.
VAT returns must be done monthly or quarterly.
So how do I get VAT registered online???
The first thing you would have to do is follow this link here: https://online.hmrc.gov.uk/registration/newbusiness/business-allowed
Once you get onto the website you must follow the instructions so that you can create a Government Gateway Account.
Step 1
Once you have entered the correct information you will be given a Gateway Government Account User ID. (Its extremely important to keep this safe and note it down somewhere)
The next screen will then ask you to select the type of business you have so select your answer by reading carefully.
Quick Tip - You will be timed out after 15 minutes of inactivity
Following that screen you will have to select the specific reasons for why you are registering your business for VAT. (In most cases it will be “making or intending to make taxable supplies”).
Step 2
Once you have input your details and business information there are documents which are required in order to fully submit your application. You cannot submit your application without these as shown below.
Step 3
If all the details you have provided are correct you will see a registration summary of all the sections completed. You can take pictures of your documents and upload them if you do not have access to a scanner. You must ensure that they are clear and all information can be read and identified.
Once all documents have been updated your Registration will then be processed and you should receive your VAT number within 3-4 weeks...
For more information click here
