Import VAT (value added tax) is a tax levied on the total value of exchanges. VAT is typically due on all new goods imported to the United Kingdom at the same rate that applies to goods manufactured and sold within the UK. Services rendered are also subject to tax at a VAT rate.
If the goods are manufactured from outside the European Union then imported to the United Kingdom, the goods are said to already be in “free circulation”, and no additional VAT is due. The same is true when goods when you import them to the UK then sell within the EU. The tax should only be applied once upon entry to any EU locale. Service VAT is levied to all services, always.
Goods that are bought and sold second hand, such as art and collectibles, are charged a VAT rate based on the purchase price rather than the value of the goods. This payment scheme is optional for those dealing in second hand goods. You may opt to seek advice from an accountant if your second hand sales exceed £150,000 in any year.
Services relating to land and property, such as hotel stays, are taxed at the rate for the country where the land is. Physical services, such as catering, are taxed at the VAT rate for the country where the service takes place. E-commerce and distance learning are charged VAT for the country where the customer is located. Passenger and freight transport is taxed the VAT rate for the country where the transport is supplied.
The HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) issues VAT to individuals, rather than businesses, in most instances. There are three basic VAT rates charged by HMRC – 17.5% is standard; 5% is the reduced rate and a zero rate. Depending on your business type and accounting practices, you may choose one of the following payment schemes, as set by HMRC.
The annual accounting scheme you make instalment payments at preset intervals. You pay an estimated VAT bill each month or quarter until the end of the year. At that time, you complete your accounting and submit a single return and balance due. Benefits of this scheme make accounting much simpler, as you know how much you regularly scheduled VAT bill will be ahead of time. You save accounting time by completing just one return per year. If your annual income is not expected to exceed £1,350,000, you may choose this scheme. Application for this scheme is required, contact HMRC for further instructions.
Cash accounting scheme allows you to pay VAT only on the payments you receive and make, rather than on invoices. If your customers typically pay late or at prolonged intervals, this is likely a better repayment scheme. You must meet specific conditions set forth by HMRC and your annual turnover may not be expected to exceed £660,000.
A payment scheme created specifically for retailers is for you if you sell direct to the public. The most valuable benefit this scheme provides is a simpler set of rules, saving significant time and money. Turnover limits do apply, depending on your business. Contact HMRC for further details.
Jack Shepard writes for Accordance VAT, an international VAT consultants, specialising in Import Tax & Duty . Accordance VAT offer a unique cross border tax consulting pratice, by providing one central contact for all your international VAT compliance queries.
Please visit Accordance VAT For more information about EU VAT and other international tax compliance issues.