VAT Reg Number but no records?

[phoenix14]

Is it possible for a company to be VAT registered but have no records on companies house. The business in question is a one man operation. Not sure if that makes any difference hency why I ask here!

[VXDunc]

No it is not possible to register a limited company for vat without an incorporation date or company number.

Presumably it is a limited company?

[chris52]

Yes an unincorperated or sole trader company can be registered for VAT. only a ltd company has to be registered with companies house whether registered for VAT or not,

Chris

[Ordinary Bloke]

Anyone can be VAT registered, whether sole trader, partnership, limited company or PLC.

The latter two have to declare that they are limited on any official documents (purchase orders, receipts, invoices) in addition to giving their VAT number.

So if a bloke working alone has a VAT number on his documents but doesn't mention being limited, he's probably a sole-trader.

Why do you ask?

[Eric Mc]

Yes - what makes the OP think the business is a limited company?

[phoenix14]

I was just curious about someone who's done some work for me. Didn't have a scooby on the ins and outs so thanks for your advice.

[Eric Mc]

Well, is the business a ltd co or not?

[phoenix14]

No doesn't say Ltd on the invoice, however liked I said never knew whether it needed to be or not to have records available.

[Simpo Two]

You're confusing VAT registration with company incorporation. Only limited companies need to file accounts; sole traders do not, and sole traders can be VAT registered, either because their turnover exceeds the threshold, or because they registered voluntarily. So don't think that because you're being charged VAT by a non-limited company, you're being scammed.