Getting a VAT number

Trine

Hi all, looking for some advice.

I'm trying to do a rough budget for a small recording studio I hope to start later this year in Dublin.

Being able to buy equipment for the studio ex-VAT would be a massive help, at the moment it's the make-or-break issue as to whether I'm going to go ahead with this or not. I just won't have the money to buy full-price kit, and it's difficult to budget when I don't know if I'll be able to buy ex-VAT or not.

So some questions, as I'm absolutely clueless when it comes to this kind of thing...

How difficult is it for somebody in my position running something like a recording studio to register for a VAT number? What forms/costs are involved? And how long does the process take? Is it something that could be done without an accountant?

€37,500 is the turnover threshold for VAT registration (I think?), I don't intend on making that kind of turnover for many years, as I'm starting off very small. Can I still register for a VAT number? And if so, do I have to charge VAT on all services even though I won't be making the threshold?

If it is possible for me to get a VAT number, how exactly does it work? Do I simply provide a VAT number at the time of purchase and don't pay VAT? Or do I have to claim it back at a certain point in the year?

Thanks for any help!

Mr. Incognito

There is a Guide to VAT in the stickies.