Registering for VAT in Ireland
Step-by-step checklist for VAT registration in Ireland. Covers eligibility, registration process, first VAT return and ongoing obligations.
1 Should You Register for VAT?
-
€40,000 for services; €80,000 for goods. Mandatory if you exceed these.
-
Beneficial if your customers are VAT-registered businesses (they can reclaim your VAT).
-
Some services are exempt (e.g. insurance, financial services, medical). Check revenue.ie.
2 Registration
-
Include VAT registration on the form.
-
You cannot charge VAT before your registration date.
3 After Registration
-
Format: IExxxxxxxx (IE + 8 digits/letters).
-
Use the VAT Record Sheet template.
-
Due on the 23rd of the month following each bi-monthly period.
4 Filing Your First VAT Return
-
Calculate total output VAT charged.
-
Calculate total input VAT paid.
-
Due by the 23rd of the month after the bi-monthly period ends.
-
Net VAT = output VAT minus input VAT. Refunds typically paid within 10 working days.
Download as PDF
Print or save a copy of this checklist with your completed items.