1) What is VAT?

VAT is the abbreviation for "Value Added Tax". it is a government tax, which is added to the most goods and services and is paid by the purchaser. It is similar to sales tax in US . In English speaking countries its normally referred to as VAT. In other countries it has a different names such as MWST in Germany.

2) Is VAT paid on most items?

Vat is charged on almost all items, i.e. business and other expenses ,hotel, car hire, telephone calls, trade shows, conferences, etc, (every business in UK that has a turnover of more £49,000 per annum by law, has to charge VAT) Regulation however do change often.

3) How is VAT calculated?

The rate of VAT differs from country to country ( see VAT rate ) the average in Europe is about 15% of the value of the goods and services you are purchasing.

4) Can anyone reclaim VAT?

No. Individuals or persons that are not registered, as a business in their home country cannot reclaim VAT . It can only be done by registered business. As well as being a registered business your home country needs to have a VAT Reclaim agreement with the country in which you have paid VAT. This entitles a business from one country to reclaim VAT in another. These days most countries have agreements in place. This particular scheme is for foreign business. If you wish to reclaim VAT in your home country the rules differ slightly and you should contact a local accountant.

5) How do I reclaim VAT?

Reclaiming VAT is not a simple process. Often you need to apply for a refund in that country's own language . There are minimum amounts imposed depending on what time of the year you are applying and other regulation that change frequently If you require any further information , Please Contact us .

6) How long does it take to get your money back?

Most tax authorities take between six to eight months to refund your money , some even longer. We have an Express claim service for those businesses that would like to see their money sooner.

7) Can all VAT be reclaimed?

Most But not all. Each country has different rules. For example , VAT paid in hotel room can be reclaimed in almost all countries except France and Italy; entertainment expenses even if for business purposes can be reclaimed in only one or tow countries . Sometimes only a portion of the VAT can be reclaimed.

8) When can I reclaim VAT?

The United Kingdom has got a deadline on the 30th of June for all claims for the tax year ending on the 5th of April of the same year. In some other European countries you can claim VAT on invoices that go back one year. In other three years and even five years in particular countries. The best method is to claim in the same year of the expense . If you do have backdate invoices contact us and we will advise you if these are eligible.

9) Can Sales TAX be reclaimed?

In some countries like the US they have Sales Tax. This is similar to VAT but this tax CANNOT be reclaimed.

10) What do I need to do to reclaimed VAT?

When you are on a business trip always ask for VAT invoices . Receipts statements pro-formas are not accepted, anyone that charge you VAT has to provide a VAT invoice. Your invoices and a few additional documents are all you need to make a claim.

11) Do I incur any costs if the claim is not successful?

No you do not pay anything for an unsuccessful claim. There is no up-front cost involved-no Hidden Charges. We get paid on a performance basis only.

12) Can I reclaim the VAT myself?

Yes ,but it's a difficult and time-consuming process, which involves a lot of research , linguistic ability, etc, Letting us to do this job for you frees up your times to conduct your business.

13) What countries can I claim the VAT back from and at what rate?

You can claim VAT from most countries that charge VAT and you can find the VAT rate from the table of which items can be reclaimed and in which country.