The short answer is, if you want to - then yes. Some register for VAT and they will pay you the VAT if you invoice it correctly (they will send you a fairly simple guide). Obviously you dont get to keep the VAT apart from the deductions from any business related VAT invoices you receive. I personally went down the flat registered option as I dont have very much by way of VAT expenses so I get to make a few extra % every quarter. I dont know how this all works with the new contracts whereby you have to register as a ltd company and use the appointed accountants - the rules may be different.