Do you need to be VAT registered to sell alcohol if your turnover is under the £90k threshold?
No, you do not need to be VAT registered to sell alcohol below the £90k threshold. Members clarified that **AWRS (Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme) registration is separate and can be obtained without VAT registration**.
However, a key consideration: if you estimate your sales will exceed £90k in the rolling 12 months ahead, you should register for VAT voluntarily *before* hitting that threshold, rather than waiting. You can also choose to be VAT registered even if you're under £90k if it suits your business.
One member noted this would be "backwards" if VAT registration were mandatory for alcohol sales below the threshold, suggesting the regulatory intent is clear on this point.
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