In 2008-09 the average time taken to complete a registration for VAT was 19.7 days. The figures for recent months are provided in the following table.
Average number of days taken April 2009 17.7 May 2009 29.0 June 2009 23.0 July 2009 27.7 August 2009 23.1 September 2009 27.1
The difference in average processing times is due to an increase in the number of potential suspect cases which required further risk checks Processing of these higher risk cases often takes longer as the necessary checks are made. HM Revenue and Customs remains committed to improving processing times, and is working with professional bodies, agents and other stakeholders to tackle the level of incomplete and/or inaccurate applications.