Should I register for VAT even though I don't have to charge it?

Fukuyama · 28-11-2014 07:41PM #1

I provide a web-based animation service. For several reasons, I target mainly the US, Canada and Australia. Sometimes the UK.

I was advised that because my clients are outside of Ireland (and mostly the EU) I do not have to charge VAT as the place of supply is technically outside of Ireland's VAT jurisdiction.

However, I pay VAT on some expenses in Ireland (the usual - phone, light, stationary etc...). So, should I (and can I) register for VAT even though I would always be claiming a VAT refund?

Scenario is : I Charge no VAT but claim back VAT on Irish expenses, so the revenue owe me every two months?

Would appreciate any advice or insight on this!

Cheers,
Dean

mneylon · 28-11-2014 07:56PM

Are you over the threshold?

TBH you really should talk to an accountant

If you do register for VAT you'll need to do returns etc., and there are a variety of new VAT rules coming into force in January that you'll need to comply with.

There's plenty of information here:
http://www.revenue.ie/en/tax/vat/guide/registration.html

But talk to an accountant

Fukuyama · 28-11-2014 08:11PM

Blacknight wrote: »

Are you over the threshold?

TBH you really should talk to an accountant

If you do register for VAT you'll need to do returns etc., and there are a variety of new VAT rules coming into force in January that you'll need to comply with.

There's plenty of information here:
http://www.revenue.ie/en/tax/vat/guide/registration.html

But talk to an accountant

Not over the threshold (not even half) for 2014.

However, I will be over for 2015 without a doubt.

I'm planning to hire an accountant for 2015 onwards so I'm sure they can shed some light on this. Was just hoping someone on here might have had a similar scenario.

mneylon · 28-11-2014 09:55PM

Dean0088 wrote: »

Not over the threshold (not even half) for 2014.

However, I will be over for 2015 without a doubt.

I'm planning to hire an accountant for 2015 onwards so I'm sure they can shed some light on this. Was just hoping someone on here might have had a similar scenario.

Having been down this road years ago - have a chat with an accountant now - not later

Gloomtastic! · 29-11-2014 08:18AM

If you know now that your revenue for 2015 is going to cross the VAT threshold, then you should register now (or for the start of January).

The VAT-man can claim back-dated VAT if they feel you registered too late - money that will have to come out of your pocket!

Should I register for VAT even though I don't have to charge it?

Comments