VAT in my situation

jaris

Hi,

I want to import some goods from a non-EU country and sell them here in UK, possibly at flea markets or online, etc. I understand that if I sell them online, I can have clear records of my sale, profits, etc. However, if I sell them on flea/farmers markets, how can I show the tax man the sale records?

Regarding VAT, I know I'll have to pay VAT on the stuff that I import, let's say 6000 sterling pounds worth of goods. I don't think I will go over the threshold this year. The shipping agent is asking me to get a pseudo-VAT number or become VAT-registered in order to get the goods imported. Is that necessary? What do you guys recommend?

In my situation, I'll selling the stuff to the general public. Do I have to pay the VAT again for the sale online? and for the sale at farmers markets? I read somewhere that I can claim the VAT back and only pay the difference? I'm a little confused.

Any comments would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

dejongj

Best to call the HMRC national advice service on 0845 010 9000. They are quite helpful, and yes the pseudo VAT numbers do exist. Oh and don't forget to ask them to confirm what they told you in writing!! This is a normal request and they should do it no problem....