Hirsch & Co Accountants

Checklist to claim VAT for your business

• You can claim VAT back for both businesses and services you have bought
• The purchase must for business purposes – not for your personal needs.
• The purchase must not a type that is 'blocked' for VAT reclaims, such as entertaining expenses.
• You must have a valid VAT invoice.

What is a valid VAT invoice?

A valid VAT invoice should include all of the following details

• The supplier's name, address and VAT registration number.
• Unique invoice number for that supplier.
• The name and address of the person to whom the goods are supplied (this will be your business).
• Date of issue of the invoice and time of supply of the goods or services (this may be the same as the date of issue).
• A description of the goods or services supplied
• The unit price
• The rate of VAT charged
• The amount payable excluding VAT
• The total amount payable for the whole invoice excluding VAT.
• Rate of any discount available.
• Total amount of VAT charged.
• Retailers can issue less detailed invoices for purchase of up to £250, but that invoice must still show key details such as the name, address and vat number of the supplier, nature of the goods and the rate of VAT applicable.

What does not count as VAT invoice

• Supplier statement
• Delivery note
• Request for payment
• Pro-forma invoice