UK VAT Calculator
Calculate UK Value Added Tax for your business. Add or remove VAT from any amount. Supports standard (20%), reduced (5%), and zero rates. MTD compliant calculations for HMRC reporting.
UK VAT Rates Explained
The UK has three VAT rates: Standard (20%), Reduced (5%), and Zero (0%). Most goods and services are taxed at the standard rate.
UK VAT Rate Categories
| Rate | Category | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| 20% | Standard | Most goods, professional services, electronics, furniture, adult clothing |
| 5% | Reduced | Domestic fuel/power, children's car seats, mobility aids, smoking cessation |
| 0% | Zero-Rated | Most food, children's clothes, books, newspapers, public transport, exports |
| Exempt | No VAT | Insurance, financial services, education, healthcare, postage stamps |
VAT Registration
- Threshold: £90,000 annual taxable turnover (from April 2024)
- Deadline: Must register within 30 days of exceeding threshold
- De-registration: Can de-register if turnover falls below £88,000
- Voluntary: Can register voluntarily to reclaim input VAT
Making Tax Digital (MTD)
All VAT-registered businesses must comply with Making Tax Digital:
- Keep digital records of all VAT transactions
- Use MTD-compatible software
- Submit VAT returns through API (not manual entry)
- Returns with payment due 1 month + 7 days after period end
VAT Returns
- Frequency: Most businesses file quarterly; large businesses monthly
- Deadline: 1 month and 7 days after quarter end
- Example: Q1 (Jan-Mar) return due May 7th
- Keep records: 6 years minimum
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UK VAT rate?
The standard rate is 20% for most goods and services. Reduced rate is 5% for domestic fuel, children's car seats, etc. Zero rate is 0% for most food, children's clothes, and books.
When do I need to register for VAT?
Mandatory if taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any 12-month period (threshold from April 2024). You can register voluntarily below this to reclaim VAT on business purchases.
What is Making Tax Digital (MTD)?
HMRC's requirement for businesses to keep digital records and submit VAT returns through MTD-compatible software. All VAT-registered businesses must comply. Manual submission is no longer allowed.