What does VAT registration with an accountant involve, and what does it cost?

A VAT registration service covers assessing whether registration is compulsory or worthwhile, choosing between standard, cash and flat rate accounting, submitting the application to HMRC, and setting up Making Tax Digital software. It is typically included within our fixed monthly packages at £45.83, £62.50 or £75.00 (lowest turnover band) plus VAT, rather than charged separately.

Before applying, an accountant checks your turnover history and forecasts against the threshold, reviews whether voluntary registration would help or hurt given your customer base, and recommends a scheme. They then complete and submit the HMRC application with consistent, accurate details to reduce the chance of a query.

After registration, the same relationship covers setting up Making Tax Digital compatible software, showing you how to raise compliant VAT invoices, and preparing your first return, including any pre-registration VAT you are entitled to reclaim.

Registration support is normally bundled into a monthly compliance package rather than billed as a one-off project, so the cost depends on which package fits your company's size and complexity rather than the registration task alone.

The three published packages are £45.83, £62.50 and £75.00 (lowest turnover band) plus VAT a month, scaling with turnover, transaction volume and the level of ongoing support required, and each includes VAT return preparation once you are registered.

Rates, thresholds and deadlines quoted here reflect the 2026/27 UK position and current Companies House and HMRC guidance. Check GOV.UK, or ask us, before relying on them for your own company.