Yes, you can get a VAT refund online, particularly for EU purchases as a non-EU resident, by using digital services like Zapptax or Vatfree.com, which simplify the process and often yield higher returns. You must export the goods within 3 months, get customs validation, and, in some cases, use apps to generate tax-free forms.
🛠 Step-by-Step Guide to Claim Your VAT Refund in the USA
Can I get a refund for goods purchased online? Nowadays, more and more customers prefer online shopping and ordering goods from e-commerce sites. In general, in the case of online purchases, Global Blue cannot provide a VAT refund to the shopper.
Claiming back VAT involves completing a VAT Return – usually each quarter. If completing the VAT Return form online on HMRC's website, you must enter how much VAT your business was charged in that three-month accounting period for goods and services you are able to claim VAT on. This is known as input VAT.
The United States Government does not refund sales tax to foreign visitors. The foreign country in which you paid the Value Added Tax (VAT) is responsible for refunding the tax. Some countries won't refund after the fact, so check with the Foreign Embassies & Consulates office of the country you visited.
You should contact the retailer or refund agent about claims for refunds of VAT. Revenue does not administer the Retail Export Scheme or give refunds directly to tourists. Retailers or refund agents can direct enquiries to their Revenue office.
For any significant purchase, even at a boutique shop, it's always worth asking about a VAT refund. The precise details of getting your money back will depend on how a particular shop organizes its refund process. In most cases, you'll present your refund documents at the airport on the way home (explained later).
You can only send your return by post or through your VAT online account if you have an exemption from Making Tax Digital for VAT . For example if you: object to using computers on religious grounds. do not have access to the internet.
Navigating VAT obligations can be particularly complex for online businesses, especially those selling across borders. Common mistakes—such as failing to register in the correct countries, applying the wrong VAT rates, or missing important filing deadlines—can lead to serious financial and legal consequences.
You cannot reclaim VAT for: anything that's only for personal use. goods and services your business uses to make VAT -exempt supplies. the cost of entertaining or providing hospitality to people you do business with (for example theatre or sports tickets)
Therefore, if a non-resident visitor to the United States purchases any taxable items and takes possession of the goods at the retailer's location, sales tax is due and there is generally no refund of the sales tax paid simply because the goods will be removed from the United States.
Procedure upon departure from the European Union
When you leave the EU territory and prior to checking your luggage, you must present both your purchases and the VAT refund form to Customs.
VAT refunds let tourists get back Value Added Tax paid on goods they buy in countries like the EU, requiring forms from stores, proof of export (customs stamp at the airport before checking bags), and claiming the refund at airport desks, usually for unused items taken home, though the US doesn't offer this. The process involves getting an exemption form, keeping goods unused with tags on, getting customs to validate forms (often pre-security), and then processing the refund with operators like Global Blue, allowing for cash or credit card returns minus fees.
(You are considered an exporting tourist when you purchase goods and take them with you home, therefore becoming eligible for a refund of the VAT that you paid during the purchase.)
Obtain a VAT refund
Through cash: Bring your passport to the GST Cash Refund Counter at the Departure Transit Lounge Area to claim your money. However, you can only receive your VAT refund in Singapore through cash if you depart from Changi Airport. Via credit card: You can go ahead and board your plane.
If your business is relatively simple, completing a VAT return each quarter should be fairly straightforward – so long as you've been keeping digital records. Savvy business owners look to use a VAT loan to take the sting out of paying their VAT bill. However, in certain circumstances, it can get more complicated.
How to claim your VAT refund. You must claim your VAT refund online, via the authorities in the country where your business is based. If you are eligible for a refund, the authorities will pass on your claim to the authorities in the other country. The VAT refund procedure is harmonised at EU level.
Here, we explore the most common VAT mistakes business owners make and how to avoid them.
Many small business owners worry about getting it wrong, but you don't need to be an accountant to complete a VAT return. With the right software and some attention to detail, you can handle the process with confidence. If you're unsure, even occasional support from a bookkeeper or accountant can help avoid errors.
Receipts, tax-free tags, passport, credit card, and goods must be shown at validation kiosks or counters. 85% of VAT is refunded after deducting fees; paid via cash (limit AED 35,000) or card. Goods must be unused and carried with the traveller services, food, or used items don't qualify.
The IRS allows you to amend returns from the last three years, which sometimes results in delayed or unexpected refund checks. While a few taxpayers are genuinely seeing deposits of $2,000 or $3,000, those refunds are tied to specific past errors or missed credits, not a general program available now.
The following conditions apply: The customer must provide proof of residence outside the EU (e.g. non-EU passport or residence permit). The goods must be taken out of the EU within 3 months of their purchase. The tourist must provide a stamped VAT refund document proving this.