Did you know you may be able to reclaim up to one sixth of the costs of your UK business programmes and expenses by reclaiming the Value Added Tax (VAT) you have paid in the UK?

Reclaiming your VAT is easy, thanks to the efficient system of the UK VAT refund authorities and the wealth of practical help and advice available.

What is Value Added Tax?

VAT, unlike sales tax, is already included in the price of most goods and services in all EU countries. In the UK, with few exceptions, just one rate of VAT is charged.

Do I have to pay VAT?

Yes, you will have to pay VAT on most goods and services purchased for your event but reclaiming VAT is easy.

Is VAT payable on everything?

The following are some of the items exempt from UK VAT - public transport, bus travel, air travel, taxi fares, magazines & books.

Which part of my costs can I reclaim?

You can include in your claim for VAT refund your general business expenses for example-

* Conference & Exhibition Expenses, including space hire & contractors' fees
* Hotel Rooms
* Food/Drink
* Car Rental
* Professional Fees
* Telephone & Fax
* Secretarial Services

Are procedures different for EU and Non EU countries?

Yes. VAT reclaim advisors and HM Customs and Excise staff can help you to make your claim.

What must I have to support my claim?

Your original invoices, not copies, showing the amount of VAT you have been charged and a certificate of status.

When can I make my claim?

As soon as you have your invoices. A deadline exists of December 31st for claims occuring in the year running from July 1st - June 30th.

Can I get help to make a claim?

Yes. Seek advice as soon as you start planning your next event. Though VAT reclaim companies will charge a fee or commission for their services, you can still reduce the overall cost of your event by a significant amount.

How long does it take to process my claim?

Claims are usually paid within 3-6 months.

Is the VAT on business expenses all that I can claim?

Don't forget many international visitors may reclaim the VAT paid on their personal purchases in the UK including souvenirs, clothing and leather goods.

Contacts:

For advice on reclaiming UK VAT the following contacts may be of use to you. (Inclusion in this list of agencies does not imply a recommendation on the part of VisitEngland).

HM Customs & Excise
VAT Overseas Repayment Unit
PO Box 34
Foyle House
Duncreggan Road
Londonderry
BT48 7AE
t: +44 (0) 2871 305100
f: +44 (0) 2871 305101
e: enq.oru.ni@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk
w: HM Customs & Excise


FEXCO Tax Reclaim
6 King Street Cloisters
Clifton Walk
London W6 0GY
t: +44 (0)20 8563 6691
f: +44 (0)20 8563 6690
w: www.fexcovatrefunds.com