Do Coaches in Ireland Need to Register for VAT? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you're a coach in Ireland—whether you're offering business coaching, life coaching, wellness, or any kind of personal development service—you might wonder:
"Do I need to register for VAT?"
Let’s make it simple.
🔸 What is VAT and When Does It Apply to Coaches?
VAT (Value Added Tax) is a tax you charge on your services, which is then passed on to Revenue. As a coach, you're required to register for VAT if:
You earn over €42,500 from services in any 12-month rolling period
This includes both in-person and online coaching sessions
👉 This isn’t based on a calendar year—it’s a rolling total. So keep an eye on your earnings month by month.
🔸 What Happens if You Don’t Register?
If your turnover crosses the threshold and you don’t register in time, Revenue can:
Backdate your VAT registration
Charge penalties and interest
Demand VAT on income you’ve already collected (but didn’t charge for)
That’s a financial mess no coach wants to be in.
🔸 Is VAT Always Bad News?
Not necessarily.
If your clients are VAT-registered businesses, they can reclaim the VAT you charge them—so it won’t affect them financially.
Also, once you're VAT-registered, you can claim VAT back on eligible business expenses like:
Zoom/online software subscriptions
Website costs
Equipment, phones, office supplies
Advertising and marketing costs
So there are upsides—if you’re prepared.
🔸 What VAT Rate Applies to Coaches?
Most coaching services in Ireland are subject to 23% VAT.
There are some limited exceptions, but if you’re a general coach helping people improve their business, life, or mindset—you’re most likely at 23%.
✨ Final Word for Coaches
As your coaching business grows, VAT is something you’ll need to deal with sooner or later.
Don’t guess. Don’t wait.
Get the right advice so your growth doesn’t come with an unexpected VAT bill.
If you’re unsure about whether you need to register—or you just want someone to explain it clearly—I’m here to help.
I work exclusively with coaches and consultants across Ireland to keep their books in order and their minds at ease.
