Free delivery on orders over £40, only £3.95 under £40

VAT exemption

What is VAT relief and what makes me eligible to claim it?

VAT is a tax that consumers pay when purchasing services or goods in the European Union. The standard rate for VAT in the UK is currently 20% (increased from 17.5% on 4 January 2011).

If you are chronically sick or disabled, many items on our website are available VAT free if you are buying them for personal and domestic use and they are relevant to your condition.

To claim relief from VAT, customers must have a relevant disability or be purchasing on behalf of someone with a relevant disability.

If you are eligible to receive certain goods designed for the disabled/chronically ill without paying VAT then please complete the declaration form which will appear automatically on the website as you place order/s into your basket. Please note that the VAT exemption details will only appear on the website if the item is eligible to be sold without VAT for those who qualify.

If you would like to check the VAT regulations, details can be found by clicking here to visit HM Customs and Excise, Notice 701/7, VAT Relief for Disabled People

Please note that VAT exemption eligibility does not cover those who are frail/elderly who are otherwise able-bodied. Nor does it cover any person who is temporarily disabled or incapacitated. The product must be supplied for the personal or domestic use of a chronically sick or disabled person to qualify for VAT zero-rating. Please also note that there are severe penalties, under the VAT laws in the UK, for any person who makes a false declaration or who evades VAT.

Not all products are eligible for VAT exemption. Products which are eligible are clearly indicated and can only be sold VAT free if the above criteria are met. Products are only eligible for VAT exemption if the manufacturer has confirmation from HMRC that they are satisfied that the original design was for the sole use of people who are chronically sick or disabled.

Please note that VAT still has to be charged on the postage and packing element of the order even if VAT exemption is applied to the product.

The rules about VAT relief for disabled and those who are chronically ill are complicated. Not all products supplied to those who are disabled or chronically ill are VAT free. If you are unsure whether you are eligible to receive certain goods or services without paying VAT please consult your local VAT office, see HMRC Notice 701/7. For further information about VAT exemption on mobility aids please click here to read more on the Government / HMRC website.

Please note that there are penalties for making false declarations. If you require any further advice please call us on 0161 85 00 884.