VAT Registration UK: When to Register, How to Apply & What It Means

VAT & Duties · 10 min read · Updated 2026-03-18

Everything you need to know about VAT registration in the UK, including the VAT threshold, how to register with HMRC, choosing the right VAT scheme, and your obligations once registered.

Written by Krishna, Founder & HMRC-registered tax agent at TaxRoot.

When do I need to register for VAT in the UK?

You must register for VAT when your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any rolling 12-month period, or when you expect it to exceed £90,000 in the next 30 days. You have 30 days from the end of the month in which you exceeded the threshold to notify HMRC.

Related TaxRoot services

• Self Assessment tax return — £134 flat fee
• Corporation Tax + annual accounts — from £389/yr
• Making Tax Digital for Income Tax — £34/month
• VAT returns — from £39/month
• UK Limited Company Registration — £100

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