I am new to doing VAT returns for a client business.
Is there a simple list, ideally on the HMRC website, of which items are VATable and which aren't? I've tried googling each item as it comes up - some have nice clear answers, and other's you just can't find out anywhere. I don't have hours and hours to search each item individually. Surely the shops that sell the items don't do this. There must be a definitive list somewhere but I really can't find it.
I am used to working with the UK Visas and Immigration website. While this is a little confusing, they publish detailed and regularly updated Guidance which provides definite answers for many different scenarios. If you are still unsure the Immigration Rules are available on the website for further clarification.
The lack of something similar about VAT on the HMRC website is surprising and very frustrating. When the receipt I have in my hand has a VAT number but no VAT breakdown I am often stuck.
Hi I have used this link before https://www.gov.uk/guidance/rates-of-vat-on-different-goods-and-services and if you need more detail there are links on the page to the HMRC guidance for particular goods and services. I hope this helps.
The link does take you to the various 'groups' of zero rated and exempt items, etc. But within each Group there are exclusions from those lists, so tread carefully!
