Tips for VAT Registration When Switching to a Limited Company?

[susan emelia1]

I’m moving from sole trader to a limited company — already registered with Companies House. Now I’m looking into VAT registration and feeling a bit unsure. 

Is it better to register directly through HMRC or use a service? I’ve seen mixed feedback online and don’t want to mess anything up or face delays.

If anyone’s gone through this recently, how did you handle VAT registration? Any tips or things to watch out for would be really helpful!

Edited August 9 by susan emelia1 (see edit history)

[Gkstiel]

I see it’s been a while since you posted, but I just wanted to ask—has anyone here dealt with changes to your VAT number after switching to a limited company? I'm wondering how other platforms like marketplaces or payment gateways handled it—did you have to update everything manually or was the transition smoother than expected? Curious what others ran into during that switch.

[franklin007]

When switching to a limited company, review your turnover to see if VAT registration is required. Cancel your old VAT registration if you were a sole trader, as VAT numbers can’t be transferred. Register the new company for VAT, update invoices and records with the new number, and notify clients or suppliers through your chosen communication platform. Using accounting software or professional help ensures accurate and timely VAT submissions.