Do I need to register for VAT to reclaim VAT from a purchase?

Yes, to reclaim the VAT from a purchase, you must register your business for VAT.

As per the current VAT regulations in the UK, you have 4 years to reclaim the VAT for a purchase so you do not necessarily need to register for VAT straight away. Here is a link to the Gov.uk guidance on reclaiming VAT for a purchase made pre-VAT registration - https://www.gov.uk/charge-reclaim-record-vat/reclaim-vat-business-expenses

If you would appreciate more guidance on when to register for VAT, Lewis has recorded a Q&A with an accountant who answers this very question and many others - https://youtu.be/38g6FUwmAfs

We recommend that you speak with an accountant to discuss registering for VAT. As mentioned in Lewis' interview, Ben the accountant, can offer a free consultation call to help you with more specific accounting questions.