Key Considerations for VAT Deregistration in the UAE

Considerations for VAT Deregistration in the UAE

Key Considerations for VAT Deregistration in the UAE

If your business’s annual taxable supplies total falls below AED 375,000, you can proceed with VAT deregistration in the UAE. While this move can offer several advantages, it’s important to be mindful of potential costs and the various considerations involved in the process.

For businesses in the UAE that cater to other companies unable to reclaim VAT on purchases or serve the general public, deregistering for VAT can confer a competitive edge. By eliminating the need to include VAT in your product prices, your business gains the ability to undercut competitors and maintain consistent pricing for enhanced profitability.

Before embarking on the journey of VAT deregistration in the UAE, whether on a permanent or temporary basis, your business’s annual turnover must remain below the specified limit. Before submitting your deregistration application, it is strongly recommended to consult with a tax professional within the UAE to gain expert insights and avoid potential pitfalls that could impact your business.

If you’re an accounting student in the UAE, you’ve probably heard about VAT (Value Added Tax). It’s that extra bit of money we pay when we buy things. But did you know that there’s something called “VAT Deregistration” that’s equally important? Don’t worry; we’re here to break it down for you in simple terms, even simpler than your favorite accounting formula!

What’s VAT Deregistration Anyway?

Alright, so you know how to register for VAT when your business hits a certain income level? Well, VAT Deregistration is the opposite. It’s when you need to cancel your VAT registration because your business is no longer making enough money to stay in the VAT club, just like how you’d cancel a subscription you’re not using anymore.

Why Would You Want to Deregister?

Think of it like this: you started a lemonade stand, and business was booming! You registered for VAT because your sales were over a certain limit. But time passed, and maybe people got tired of lemonade, or the summer just ended. Your sales are lower, and you’re thinking, “Do I need to keep doing all this VAT stuff?” That’s when you might consider VAT Deregistration.

The Magic Number: AED 187,500

In the UAE, a number is like the golden ticket to the VAT world: AED 187,500. If your sales in the past 12 months fall below this number, you can think about waving goodbye to VAT. But remember, you also need to check your future sales. If you expect them to stay low, you’re on the right track to deregister.

Timing Is Everything

Just like you need to time your baking so your cookies come out perfectly, timing is crucial in VAT Deregistration too. You can only apply for deregistration if you’re sure your sales will stay below AED 187,500 in the next 30 days. It’s like telling your teacher you won’t need that extra math class because you’re confident you’ve figured it out.

Say Goodbye to Tax Refunds

When you’re registered for VAT, you might get tax refunds for the VAT you’ve paid on your business purchases. But if you deregister, that party’s over. No more refunds for you, so make sure you’ve done the math and it’s worth it.

The Paperwork Shuffle

Deregistering isn’t just about saying, “I’m out!” There’s some paperwork involved too. You must complete a form and submit it to the tax authorities. Remember, just like you wouldn’t leave a class without officially telling your school, you can’t leave the VAT club without telling the tax folks.

VAT Liability for Asset Holding During Deregistration

If your business retains assets during deregistration, it may incur VAT liability that requires resolution. This liability pertains to assets disposed of at fair market value on deregistration. Strategies exist to mitigate or eliminate potential VAT liability, including the following:

  1. VAT payable by the business is calculated based on the market value of assets as of the VAT deregistration date, factoring in any depreciation, obsolescence, or damage incurred by the items.
  2. Assets for which input VAT was not claimed during the fiscal period of purchase are exempt from VAT liability. This exemption applies to secondhand vehicles acquired from non-VAT registered suppliers. Exceptions include standard-rated goods acquired VAT-free due to a business takeover as a going concern.
  3. Assets subject to VAT exemption or zero rates do not incur output VAT liability.
  4. Intangible assets, such as goodwill or patents, do not trigger output VAT liability.

Considering Post VAT Deregistration Expenses

During the final VAT return filing, businesses must account for VAT related to outstanding sales invoices and can reclaim input VAT for unpaid purchase invoices. Claims for business expenses, such as accounting fees, can still be made post-VAT deregistration as long as they pertain to a period during which the business was VAT registered in the UAE.

Transitioning to a New Tax Registration Number

In cases where a business changes its company structure, for example, transitioning from a sole proprietorship to a limited liability company in the UAE, the sole trader must initiate VAT deregistration. Regulating tax agents in Dubai, UAE, recommend that the new company register for VAT on the same day as deregistration occurs. While the new business can retain the old tax registration number, this choice entails assuming responsibility for potential VAT liabilities, including errors from previous years. Opting for a new tax registration number offers a clean slate and helps mitigate uncertain risks.

Compulsory Deregistration Scenarios

For VAT-registered businesses in the UAE that cease trading and have no intention of engaging in taxable sales moving forward, compulsory deregistration is required effective from the final trading day. However, there’s room for businesses to extend this date, including purchase invoices for input VAT reclamation purposes. Additionally, professional dues may arise upon your business’s final sale.

Expert Guidance

Although the pros and cons of VAT deregistration in the UAE might seem straightforward, seeking advice from tax experts within the UAE is highly recommended. Before making any decisions and moving forward, it’s prudent to exercise caution, as there could be potential costs involved in the process of VAT cancellation.

Additionally, it’s important to gather necessary records and maintain accounts of relevant receipts and invoices, as these will be essential for your business’s final VAT return filing. To ensure the smooth management of all subsequent VAT-related affairs, feel free to reach out to us at VAT Registration UAE today!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, VAT Deregistration in the UAE in a nutshell. It’s like putting your business on a diet – if it’s not making as much dough, you can skip the VAT feast. Remember, the numbers matter, timing is key, and paperwork can’t be ignored. So, whether you’re sipping lemonade or crunching numbers, VAT Deregistration is a step that can save you time and effort when done right.

A Comprehensive Guide to VAT Deregistration UAE: Steps and Eligibility

guide to VAT Deregistration UAE

A Comprehensive Guide to VAT Deregistration UAE: Steps and Eligibility

When a business wants to stop participating in VAT in the UAE, its TRN (Tax Registration Number) gets canceled. This happens through a process called VAT deregistration. To do this, a business must tell the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) that they want to cancel their VAT registration. But there are rules – the government decides when you can leave and why. The FTA also determines if you can leave or not.

People leave the VAT system for different reasons, but these reasons have to match the government’s rules. The government sets the rules like guidelines for the VAT club. If your reason matches, you can ask to leave. There’s a specific time when you can leave without getting into trouble. It’s important to follow this time to avoid extra fees or problems.

Knowing the VAT laws is important. It’s like understanding the rules of a game before you play. To leave VAT correctly, you need to know the current VAT laws in the UAE. This helps you do everything right and on time. Leaving VAT is a bit like solving a puzzle. You need to tell the FTA, follow the rules, and know when to do it. So, whether you’re saying goodbye to VAT for a while or forever, you know how to do it correctly.

Today, we’re unraveling the intricacies of a critical aspect of the UAE’s tax landscape – VAT deregistration. While it might sound complex, we’re here to demystify the process and guide you through each step. Think of this as your roadmap to understanding how businesses can bid farewell to their VAT registration in the UAE.

Understanding VAT Deregistration UAE

To kick things off, let’s clarify what VAT deregistration UAE entails. In the UAE, the termination of a Tax Registration Number (TRN) is the outcome of VAT deregistration or cancellation. When businesses decide to step out of the VAT circle, they must formally cancel their registration with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). However, this decision isn’t arbitrary; it must align with specific conditions outlined in the UAE’s VAT regulations. The FTA has the authority to accept or reject VAT deregistration applications.

The Importance of VAT Deregistration UAE

VAT deregistration in the UAE is as pivotal as the initial registration process. Any VAT-registered entity should be well-versed in the prevailing VAT legislation to ensure a smooth application for VAT cancellation. Furthermore, there’s a designated timeframe for a business to opt for deregistration without incurring penalties.

Eligibility for VAT Deregistration

Now, let’s delve into the eligibility criteria for VAT deregistration UAE, as per the current regulations set by the Federal Tax Authority:

1. Mandatory VAT Deregistration: A business can qualify for mandatory VAT deregistration if:

  • It ceases to engage in taxable supplies, or
  • The total value of taxable supplies for the past year and the upcoming thirty days doesn’t surpass the threshold for voluntary VAT registration.

   If your business meets these conditions, applying for VAT deregistration is essential to avoid fines and penalties promptly.

2. Time Limit for Mandatory Deregistration Application: Once your business becomes eligible for VAT deregistration, it must apply within twenty business days from the triggering event. Failure to adhere to this timeline can result in financial penalties.

Voluntary VAT Deregistration

Voluntary VAT deregistration UAE is also a possibility if your business falls under the following scenarios:

  • It has dealt with taxable supplies over the last twelve months, but its taxable supplies are below the mandatory VAT registration threshold (currently Dh375,000).
  • Twelve calendar months have passed since your business registered for voluntary VAT.

In these cases, you can apply for voluntary VAT deregistration without a specific deadline imposed by the Federal Tax Authority.

The VAT Deregistration Process

Once your business has valid reasons for VAT deregistration, it’s time to initiate the process by providing the necessary information to the tax authority. Alongside the application, clearances for outstanding taxes, fines, or administrative penalties must be included, along with proof of filed returns. Any outstanding penalties and liabilities must also be settled if your business fails to apply within the required timeframe.

VAT Deregistration Penalty

Remember that a penalty of Dh10,000 applies if a mandatory VAT deregistration application is not submitted within the stipulated deadline.

After Application Submission

You’ll receive a confirmation notification from the FTA after submitting your VAT deregistration UAE application and supporting documentation. Subsequently, the FTA will review the application’s reasons, highlighting the importance of providing proof and evidence. Factors such as pending penalties, return statuses, and tax payments will also undergo scrutiny.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you’ve been guided through the VAT deregistration UAE process! Understanding the eligibility criteria and adhering to the proper steps are crucial. If you ever find your business in a position where VAT deregistration makes sense, follow this comprehensive guide to navigate the process confidently. Here’s to smooth sailing on your journey through the UAE’s VAT landscape!

Everything You Need to Know About VAT Implementation in UAE

VAT Implementation UAE

Everything You Need to Know About VAT Implementation in UAE

The introduction of VAT (Value Added Tax) in 2018 was a significant reform for the United Arab Emirates. VAT is a consumption tax levied on goods and services, and its implementation has been an important milestone for the UAE government in increasing the country’s revenue sources. Understanding VAT and its implications is crucial if your business operations are in the UAE. This article will help you with all the information regarding VAT Implementation in the UAE.   

What is VAT?  

A tax imposed on goods and services at every stage of the supply chain is called VAT or Value Added Tax, as it is a tax on value-added. The ultimate burden of VAT falls on the end-consumer of products and services, and the VAT collected at each stage of the supply chain is paid to the government. VAT has been successfully implemented in the UAE since 2018, though it is a standard tax system worldwide.  

Benefits of VAT Implementation in UAE  

The VAT implementation in the UAE has several benefits, including:  

  • Increased Revenue Sources: Implementing VAT in the UAE has helped increase the government’s revenue sources, providing more public services and infrastructure development funds.  
  • Improved Transparency: VAT helps to enhance transparency in the economy as businesses are required to keep detailed records of their VAT transactions. That can help to reduce tax evasion and improve the accuracy of tax collection.  
  • Promotes Fair Competition: VAT promotes fair competition in the marketplace as all businesses, regardless of size, must register for VAT and charge VAT on their sales.  

VAT Obligations for Businesses in the UAE 

Businesses in the UAE must comply with a range of obligations related to VAT, including:

  • VAT Registration: All businesses operating in the UAE must register for VAT if their taxable supplies exceed the mandatory registration threshold of AED 375,000.
  • VAT Return Filing: Businesses must file VAT returns regularly, usually monthly or quarterly, to report the VAT they have collected and the VAT they have paid.   
  • Keeping Records: Businesses must keep detailed records of their VAT transactions, including invoices, receipts, and other documentation.

How to be Compliant with VAT Requirements in the UAE

VAT requirement compliance can be challenging, and businesses may find the process to be complex, and to ensure compliance, companies can take the steps listed below: 

Hire a VAT Expert: To help you to guide your business process of VAT implementation in UAE and ensure that your business is compliant, it is highly recommended to hire a VAT Expert. That can be done internally, or you can outsource as well. 

Implement VAT-Compliant Systems: Your business should implement VAT-compliant systems, such as accounting software, to help keep track of VAT transactions and simplify the VAT return filing process.  

Employee Education and Awareness: Ensuring everyone in the organization is on the same page and aware of the VAT requirements so that they take necessary steps to comply, it is crucial to educate your employees and enable them with resources about VAT and its implications for your business. 

Get Your Business VAT Registered in UAE 

VAT Registration

Get Your Business VAT Registered in UAE

VAT was introduced in the United Arab Emirates on the 1st of January 2018. Value Added Tax or VAT is an indirect tax charged on the supply of goods and services in UAE. VAT is charged at every step of the supply chain. In order to be compliant with the laws and regulations of the country to avoid any penalties, it is necessary for businesses operating in UAE to get their businesses VAT registered if they meet the minimum threshold requirement. 

Based on the nature of supplies, VAT is divided into three categories: 

  1. Taxable VAT – includes all supplies that are subject to 5% VAT
  2. Exempted VAT – includes all goods and services where VAT is not at all applied, or not charged at all
  3. Zero-rated VAT – includes all goods and services that are VAT taxable, but at a rate of 0%.

This guide aims to provide a step-by-step approach for businesses to get themselves VAT registered and fulfill their obligations as a taxpayer. 

Introduction to VAT in UAE 

The UAE economy had been heavily dependent on the petroleum industry, and in order to diversify the revenue streams of the country, VAT was implemented ensuring that the burden of taxation was shared equitably across all sectors of the economy. VAT implementation led the government to contribute to the continued provision of high-quality public services, which are paid for by the government budgets. 

The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing VAT in the UAE. Businesses are required to register for VAT if they meet the annual taxable supplies threshold of AED 375,000. Businesses can register for VAT voluntarily as well if the supplies and imports are less than the mandatory threshold but exceed the minimum taxable supplies threshold of AED 187,500. Companies that fail to comply could face heavy fines and avoidable penalties from the government.  

Requirements for VAT Registration in UAE 

Following are the requirements that would have to be fulfilled in order to get your business VAT registered in UAE: 

  • Trade License
  • Passport & Emirates ID of Manager, owner, & senior management
  • Partnership Agreement, Articles of Association/Certification of Incorporation
  • Bank account details
  • Turnover of last 12 months along with the documentary proof of the same and expected turnover of the next 30 days
  • Custom details
  • Authorized signatory documents
  • Expenses subject to VAT paid for the last 12 months & expected in the next 30 days
  • Evidence of supplies including contracts, invoices and supporting documents

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Business VAT Registered in UAE 

Here is a comprehensive guide to help you get your VAT registered in UAE: 

  1. Determine your VAT liability: The first step to getting VAT registered in UAE is to determine if you meet the minimum taxable supplies threshold of AED 187,500 for voluntary disclosure and  AED 375,000 for mandatory.
  2. Complete the VAT registration form: The next step would be to complete the VAT registration form, which can be found on the FTA’s website. You will need to provide details such as your trade license number, commercial registration certificate, details of taxable supplies, and information about registered partners/directors.
  3. Submit the VAT registration form: Once the VAT registration form is completed, you will need to submit it to the FTA for approval. This can be done online through the FTA’s e-services portal.
  4. Receive VAT registration certificate: After your VAT registration form has been approved, you will receive a VAT registration certificate, this certificate confirms that you are now a registered VAT taxpayer in the UAE.
  5. Start charging VAT: You are now ready to start charging VAT on your taxable supplies. It is necessary to keep accurate records of all VAT transactions and ensure that you submit your VAT returns on time to avoid any delays and avoidable penalties.

FAQ’s

Who is responsible for overseeing VAT in UAE?

The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) is responsible for overseeing VAT in UAE. It is the government entity responsible for administering, collecting as well as enforcing federal taxes.

What are the requirements for VAT registration in UAE?

The requirements for VAT registration in UAE include having a valid trade license and commercial registration certificate, providing details of all taxable supplies made in the previous year (12 months), having a tax registration number (TRN), and providing details of all registered partners/directors.