What is typically a key requirement for a business to join the VAT annual accounting scheme?

A key requirement for a business to join the VAT annual accounting scheme is having a turnover below £1.35 million. This threshold is established to ensure that the scheme is suited for smaller businesses. The VAT annual accounting scheme is designed to simplify the VAT compliance process by allowing eligible businesses to account for VAT on an annual basis rather than quarterly, which can significantly reduce administrative burdens.

This turnover limit is important as it helps target the scheme's benefits toward smaller enterprises that might struggle with the more frequent reporting and payment schedules associated with VAT. Businesses with a turnover exceeding this limit typically have more complex VAT reporting needs that require a different approach.

Options that reference a minimum turnover of £2 million or a minimum number of employees are misaligned with the requirements for this specific scheme. There is also no option that justifies no requirements whatsoever, as tax compliance schemes inherently necessitate certain criteria for eligibility.