Register for VAT One Stop Shop Scheme

The VAT Import One Stop Shop (IOSS) Scheme applies to goods imported in consignments with a value of £135 or less (known as low value goods) from countries outside the EU and Northern Ireland, to consumers in the EU, Northern Ireland, or both. The IOSS Scheme...

Business VAT responsibilities

The taxable turnover threshold that determines whether businesses should be registered for VAT is currently £85,000. Businesses with turnover below this level can also apply for a voluntary VAT registration. Businesses charge VAT on their sales. This is...

Are mega sized marshmallows zero-rated?

In the UK most basic food stuffs are zero rated. However, the definition of 'basic' is not straightforward and many of the foods are zero rated as a result of historical legislation dating back to the introduction of VAT in 1973. Famously, cakes are zero rated...

How to check a UK VAT number

The online service for checking a UK VAT number is available at: www.gov.uk/check-uk-vat-number. This service can be used to check: if a UK VAT registration number is valid; and the name and address of the business the number is registered to. The service also...

Reclaiming pre-trading VAT

There are special rules that determine the recoverability of VAT incurred before a business registered for VAT. This type of VAT is known as pre-registration input VAT. There are different rules for the supply of goods and services, but VAT can only be reclaimed if...

Are we unpaid tax collectors?

Business owners often refer to VAT as if it were a cost to their business regardless of their VAT position; whether they are registered for VAT or not. If you are not registered for VAT, you do not have to add VAT to your sales and you cannot recover any VAT you pay...