When you register for VAT there will be a crossover period between submitting your application for VAT and getting your VAT number from HMRC. You can’t charge or show VAT on your invoices until you get your VAT number. However, you will still have to pay the VAT to HMRC for any sales you make in this period.
When can a company not charge VAT?
In the UK, you can’t charge VAT on exempt items or services. Exempt goods or services are supplies that you can’t charge VAT on and the “exempt” category relates to a limited number of UK services like health services provided by doctors, insurance, and gambling.
Do I need to charge VAT if not VAT registered?
You must not charge VAT if your business is not registered for VAT. However, VAT registered businesses must charge VAT on their taxable supplies of goods and services and can reclaim the VAT they have paid that relates to the supplies on which they have charged VAT.
Can I backdate my VAT registration?
HMRC will not backdate a registration once a VAT number has been issued. Note – HMRC will only backdate a registration in the case of departmental error. Their published guidance, however, also states that they will backdate the registration where there are mitigating circumstances.
How do I find out my VAT registration date?
There are two ways of getting it. The first is through your online Government Gateway Account. Simply log onto your account, go into the VAT section and you can print your registration certificate. If you cannot login to your online account then you can apply online and HMRC will send you the details.
What happens if you forget to charge VAT?
If you fail to register for VAT with HMRC when you are supposed to, you may face a penalty. The amount of the fine is dependent on the amount of VAT owed, as well as on how late you were with your VAT registration. Unfortunately, HMRC will still expect you to pay them the VAT that should have been charged at the time.
How long can you backdate a VAT registration?
4 years
There’s a time limit for backdating claims for VAT paid before registration. From your date of registration the time limit is: 4 years for goods you still have, or that were used to make other goods you still have. 6 months for services.
