I run a small business, and I need to know at what point do I need to pay VAT? Do I need to pass a threshold first? (If say, I only earn 5k in the year, would I need to pay VAT?)
I believe the threshold for registering for VAT is £77,000 per annum, but you can register voluntarily if your turnover (of VATable goods or services) is less than this.
You always pay VAT, so I'm guessing the question is do you need to charge VAT, which is answered above.
Issues to look at in this context are:
- are you likely to meet the threshold stated?
- Who will your customers be (are they likely to be VAT registered)?
- Are you buying in significant VATable supplies.