You must register for VAT if:
- Your taxable turnover exceeds the VAT threshold in any 12 month period
- you expect your taxable turnover to exceed the VAT threshold within the next 30 days
- you take over an existing VAT registered business as a going concern
You have 30 days from the date you meet any of these criteria to register.
Usually, VAT registration can be completed online and if you apply online, you will be enrolled automatically so that you can submit your VAT return online (there is no longer a paper version).
The current VAT threshold is £85,000; if your turnover is below the registration limit, you can choose whether to apply for voluntary registration. The standard rate of VAT currently is
20%.
See the
official VAT website
for full up to date details.