vat registration

[wheeler-dealer]

i am about to register for vat, can i start to add vat to my invoices before i get my registration through the post with my number,
will my customers need to see my registration number first on the invoices before they pay me

[David Griffiths]

HMRC's take on the matter is here (http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/vat/start/register/waiting.htm#4)

Much is down to the exact circumstances of your registration. If it's a compulsory registration there is a clear month between crossing the threshold and starting to charge VAT. In many cases, that's enough time to register and get your number before you have to issue invoices, but it's best if you act quickly so that you have the maximum time.

If you go over at 30 September, fill the form in online on 1 October and charge from 1 November.

If you went over on 31 August, then you've already used nearly the whole month doing nothing!

[wheeler-dealer]

i havent gone over the threshold its just that it will benefit my business if i register now as most of my customers are vat registered anyway so i can claim on my materials.