Eye to (try) to answer your question about VAT. You asked whether the £82k threshold would have to be met from MLM 'bonuses' and 'retail sales'. Well, the answer is that if the threshold was met from those things there would definitely be a requirement to register (so some of the bots with large cheques should be registered). There could be NO PROFIT AT ALL and STILL a requirement to register. If A sold stuff to B for £90k, and B sold to C for £90k, both A and B would need to register.
And the turnover includes 'business goods used for personal reasons' AND goods you bartered or gave as gifts AND may also include sales you make (in the same capacity i.e. an individual) in another business. Eg if someone was a self employed hairdresser, say, or a beautician, and made some sales there then that might also count.
And you don't mess with VAT. The penalties are designed to ensure compliance, so can be quite stiff just for being a few days late with stuff. And the Customs people have a reputation for being tougher than the income tax lot.
So all of those facebook posts about 'six figure incomes'. Well, we all know if it means anything it means turnover not profit. But before the turnover gets near that, start registering for VAT. Because HMRC search facebook, and if you have to be a Distributor in your own name then it is pretty easy for them to see if you are registered or not. And if they just think you should be, I wouldn't like to have to be the one who said 'well yes, I did say that I earned that, but it is all lies really' because they hear that all the time!
And once you are registered, it is a hassle. Quarterly returns etc. EVEN if there is no profit!
I want to get the message across that you can't 'play' with being a business. If you do, it may be a lot more hassle than you think.
But I also want to reiterate what everyone else is saying - respect to anyone who gets out. If anyone is worried about what I am saying, PM me and I will try to help!