How do I register for VAT?

You register for VAT online through your Government Gateway account on GOV.UK, where you'll need details like your business turnover, bank details, and Unique Taxpayer Reference. Once approved, HMRC issues you a VAT registration number and confirms your effective date of registration, after which you must charge VAT on your sales and can start reclaiming it on eligible purchases. Registration itself is usually straightforward, but getting the effective date and your accounting setup right matters, so many businesses ask an accountant to handle or check the process.