So you’ve made it through the dreaded VAT registration process (congratulations!). You’ll soon receive a certificate to prove you are officially VAT-registered. But what is a VAT certificate? And where can you get one?
In this blog, our expert VAT accountants explain everything you need to know about VAT certificates and why they are so important. We’re giving you friendly guidance on how to get hold of your certificate and put your mind at ease if you’re still waiting for it.
Are you having trouble meeting your VAT commitments? Contact Archimedia today, and let us help you.
What is a VAT certificate?
Before we answer the question, “How do I get a VAT certificate?” let’s first examine what it is and why it is so important to have one.
Regardless of what type of business you have, once you reach that taxable turnover milestone (also known as the VAT threshold), you’ll need to register for VAT.
The VAT registration certificate is essentially your proof that you have completed the registration process. It gives you the go-ahead to start charging VAT on your products and services and reclaim any VAT you’ve paid for business expenses.
Why do you need a VAT certificate?
Having a VAT registration certificate is more than just keeping you compliant. Yes, it is essential to prove you are VAT registered and it makes things much easier if suppliers or customers want to see evidence, but it also helps boost business appearance.
If you want to show off as an established business to potential investors or stakeholders, then proving you’re a VAT-registered business is a great start.
What happens if you don’t have a VAT certificate?
As soon as you reach the VAT threshold of £90,000 (2024), you must register for VAT and start charging it on your products and services. There’s a slight glitch, though, as you cannot include VAT on any invoices until you have your VAT registration number.
During this period, you can either increase your prices to cover the cost of VAT while you wait for your VAT number to arrive, or you can reissue your invoices after you have your certificate so customers can reclaim VAT.
How to obtain a VAT certificate
Back in the day, HMRC usually sent the VAT certificate in the post around 30 days after the VAT registration date. You would also handle all related matters through the VAT portal, which has since closed. Times have changed. With new software, modern accounting practices, and the introduction of Making Tax Digital, VAT is now mostly dealt with online, including the VAT certificate.
This means you can get ahold of your certificate quite quickly once you’ve registered for VAT. If you haven’t yet done this, you should head on over to the HMRC website and register for VAT. You’ll need some key information like your name, contact telephone number, business address, bank details and details of your business activities.
Once the application has been approved, you’re good to go. You might also need some help from an accountant with some of the details whilst registering (for example: what is your forecasted Zero-Rated turnover likely to be?).
Can you view your VAT certificate in your Business Tax Account?
Since HMRC no longer delivers a hard copy, you can easily find your VAT certificate online through your Business Tax Account.
How to access your VAT certificate online
You can find your VAT certificate in a few quick and easy steps online:
- Head to HMRC’s online services and log in to your Government Gateway account.
- Click ‘view VAT account’.
- Look for the ‘manage your VAT’ section and click ‘view VAT certificate’.
It’s as simple as that!
We understand, though, that not everyone has the time and technical skills to manage VAT online. Sometimes, you’re just too used to the good old accounting methods, like spreadsheets and calculators. That’s where a tech-savvy accountant can make all the difference.
Looking for specialist VAT advice? Contact us
Whether you’ve just started out as a sole trader or have been at it for years as a limited company, VAT is an important part of any business. It means you’re on the right track for growth.
In fact, at Archimedia, we’re always shouting out about the importance of preparing for VAT. Staying below the threshold may mean you’ll have less tax to worry about, but it also stunts your potential growth. The good news is that we are tax experts. We have plenty of experience giving our clients the support they need to breeze through the early stages of VAT.
In addition to taking over any tricky VAT tasks, like registration or submitting returns, we’ll provide regular one-on-one tax planning sessions with Barbara. Barbara has years of tax experience, from supporting clients with troublesome tax burdens to becoming a successful portfolio landlord.
Ready to make a move and prepare for VAT? Get in touch today, and we’ll gladly show you the ropes.
Frequently asked questions about VAT certificates
Is there a VAT exemption certificate?
Unfortunately not. While some suppliers and customers might be curious about your VAT status, you are not required to hold an exemption certificate.
Are my VAT details on the certificate?
The VAT certificate will contain all the important details about your VAT status, including your unique VAT registration number, registration date, and details of your first VAT deadline.
Will my accountant have access to my VAT certificate?
You have to grant them ‘agent authority’ on your account. Once you do, your accountant will be able to view your VAT certificate and communicate with HMRC on your behalf.
Can I claim a VAT refund from another country?
If you trade in the UK but need to claim a refund from overseas, then you might need more than your VAT certificate as proof. You can contact HMRC and make a ‘VAT certificate of status’ request to confirm you are a UK trader.
Are you an eCommerce business? Read our guide on how VAT may apply to you- VAT for eCommerce businesses.
