new to freelancing - how do I invoice?

[LittleRedBook]

I know this is a bit thick, but I'm only working a few hours for my old company as a freelance not employed. It's consultancy services.

Question is - What do I do about VAT? Account for it or just charge them the hourly rate I agreed and don't factor in VAT?

Am sole trader and not VAT registered, I won't have enough turnover or whatever to qualify.

Thanks!

If you are not registered for VAT you don't need to charge it. But you can register voluntarily even if you are not actually required to. I don't have enough turnover to have to register for VAT, but I am registered anyway. There is a flat rate scheme for small businesses that can mean it's financially beneficial to register. Ask your accountant if you've got one, or have a look on HMRC website.

If you're under the VAT threshold and do not wish to register for it then you don't need to charge it. So just invoice for your hourly rate.

Don't forget to state your payment terms - I always put 30 days although some clients tend to stretch this...

I'm a sole trader freelancer and I just charge the agreed hourly/daily rate - you only have to factor in VAT if your turnover is sometihng like £50-60k

Sorry to come back so late. many thanks for your replies, that sorts it out for me.

Thanks again!