Registering for GST too early costs more than it saves

Voluntary registration below the threshold is sometimes right — mainly if your buyers need input credit, or you are exporting.

What it also brings: monthly and annual filings whether or not you traded, late fees that accrue on nil returns, and a compliance record that follows you.

If your customers are individuals and you are well under the threshold, the calculation is usually against it. Work out the credit you would actually pass on before deciding.