VAT cannot be reclaimed on expenses that are not directly for business purposes, such as personal purchases, goods used to make VAT-exempt supplies, or items purchased under second-hand margin schemes. Key non-recoverable items include most business entertainment (e.g., meals, theatre tickets), passenger cars, and goods bought from non-VAT registered businesses.
So it's usually high-ticket items, like jewelry or fine clothing, that qualify for a VAT refund, not a paperback novel or suntan lotion. There are also a number of goods and services that are not eligible for refunds, including hotel rooms and meals.
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)
When not to charge VAT
Costs that are out of scope for VAT are outside the remit of the UK VAT system, which means that VAT doesn't apply to them. Examples include: government-imposed tolls, such as MOT certificates, council tax and business rates. staff wages and pensions.
Healthcare: Medical services, hospital care, and the supply of certain medical products may also be exempt from VAT. Financial services: Many financial services, like insurance and banking, are VAT-exempt. Charitable activities: Donations and activities carried out by registered charities may be exempt from VAT.
Claiming VAT back - what you can claim for
This means office supplies, computers and equipment, transport costs and services such as accountancy all count if they are solely used for the purpose of your business.
Frequently asked questions
How to Avoid Paying VAT When Making Card Payments
How to apply
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.
Agricultural products, tuition fees, lending operations, real estate, books, transportation and other necessities are typically VAT-exempt transactions.
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).
the United States does not participate in the VAT tax refund, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers are not mandated to stamp VAT tax forms.
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.
If you order has been fulfilled by Amazon, you will be able to access your invoice online by clicking on the invoice button in the right-hand corner of the order. You will now be able to download your Amazon invoice. The invoice has all the details that HMRC require for you to recover the VAT on your purchase.
What items are eligible for a VAT refund? Typical Recoverable Expenses are:
Exempt goods and services include insurance, education, and health services. Any VAT incurred on the provider's costs in connection with these supplies cannot be reclaimed from HMRC.
(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.)
Common Types of VAT Exempted Supplies
To get the product VAT free your disability has to qualify. For VAT purposes, you're disabled or have a long-term illness if: you have a physical or mental impairment that affects your ability to carry out everyday activities, for example blindness. you have a condition that's treated as chronic sickness, like diabetes.
Exempt goods and services include many basic necessities such as food items, healthcare, and educational services. Unlike zero-rated goods, businesses dealing with exempt goods cannot claim a credit for the GST paid on inputs used to make these products.
You might be surprised to learn that simple business expenses like your cellphone bill or your new computer can be deducted from your taxable income. In fact, there are some fully-deductible expenses such as advertising and marketing costs, employee education and training, and certain legal fees.
Certain business expenses, such as office supplies, equipment, professional fees, and business travel expenses, are deductible for VAT purposes. Non-deductible expenses: Expenses like entertainment, personal expenses, penalties, and fines are not eligible for VAT deduction.