How to Register for a VAT Number

Value Added Tax (VAT) is a tax on goods and services.

Value Added Tax (VAT) is the European equivalent of sales tax in the United States. A percentage of the sales total is added to the cost of the goods or services (either business to business sales or consumer goods). If your business generates over £68,000 a year in sales, or if you are selling VAT exempt goods, you must register for a VAT number. The most convenient method of registering is online.

Instructions

1. Go to the Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs website listed in References.

2. Select the type of application by clicking on a category. For example, click on "Individual."

3. Click on the "VAT Registration" Checkbox.

4. Fill in your name and address in the relevant boxes. Once you have created an account, you must wait for a PIN to arrive in approximately one week.

5. Register for an online VAT number at the HMRC website listed in Resources. Your VAT number will arrive approximately one to six months after your application has been received.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have lost your user ID and password, contact HMRC's helpdesk to retrieve it.

References

• Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs: Online Registration
• HMRC: Registration Instructions

Resources

• HMRC: Apply for a VAT Number Online
• HMRC: Help Desk