VAT registration quiz
Four quick questions to see whether you must register for VAT, should consider it voluntarily, or should hold off for now.
Should you register for VAT?
Answer the questions, your guidance updates instantly.
Guidance only, based on general rules. Discuss your specific position with us on a free call before deciding.
How it works
Registration becomes compulsory once your rolling 12-month taxable turnover passes £90,000. Below that, it's a judgement call: registering lets you reclaim VAT on costs, which matters more if your costs are high, and is usually painless if your customers are VAT-registered businesses who can reclaim the VAT you charge them. It's usually a harder sell if your customers are the public, who feel the 20% price rise directly. Our VAT registration guide covers the decision in more depth, and our VAT returns service handles the filing once you're registered.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I go over the threshold and don't register?
HMRC can charge penalties for late registration, backdated to when you should have registered, so it's worth monitoring your rolling 12-month turnover closely if you're near £90,000.
Can I deregister later if my turnover falls?
Yes, once your turnover is expected to fall below the deregistration threshold of £88,000, you can apply to deregister, though this is a decision worth discussing with us first.
Why would I register voluntarily below the threshold?
Mainly to reclaim VAT on your costs, which can be worthwhile if you have significant VATable expenses, or to appear more established to VAT-registered business customers.
Does registering slow down my invoicing?
No, but it does mean charging 20% VAT on top of your prices and filing quarterly returns under Making Tax Digital, which is where our VAT returns service removes the admin burden.
These results are a simplified illustration based on 2026/27 rates, not advice. Your real position depends on your full circumstances. For a personalised answer, book a free consultation.
Numbers looking complicated?
A calculator gives you an estimate. A free call gives you a plan. Book one and we'll work through your actual situation.