import vat - reclaimable?

[Karimbo]

Just to be sure. I have been treating import vat just like any other input vat up til now, but I just want to make sure it's definately allowed.

It's definately import VAT on the fedex documentation, and not duty. + there is fedex fee which I do not post as VAT (post as shipping, non vatted).

 

[NRLtd]

Hi

If it was properly declared on entry (which by the looks of things it has been by Fed Ex) HMRC will issue a monthly certificate showing VAT paid on entry. It is this certificate you should use as the official documentation for reclaiming VAT. In other words, until you get that certificate you should not really reclaim any VAT on the imports.

 

[Karimbo]

Thanks for the reply, I had no idea.

I have applied for a EORI which replaces TURN - I can then apply for a number of services that will allow me to get a C79 document. I import about once every 3 months - small, low value items. Which service would be best suited for me?

Import Control System (ICS)
New Computerised Transit System (NCTS)

Are these direct substitutes of one another or are they different?

Finally can I get backdated c79 from HMRC for the previous import VAT?

Thanks

 

[NRLtd]

Hi

I'm not directly familiar enough with importing to advise on ICS/NCTS - I just get the VAT end!

Other than C79s getting lost in the post, I've never tried to get back dated C79s or C79s for prior periods where VAT may not have been properly declared. However, I have in the past had to deal with errors on a C79, this was called a post clearance amendment and involves getting the agent (Fed Ex etc.) to correctly notify HMRC - I don't have the contact details of the department to hand.

Do you inform your supplier of your VAT status, are they fully aware of the UK import procedure? Any documents accompanying the shipment should have your full details (VAT number etc.) so that it can be logged with HMRC when it arrives. As far as Fed Ex may be concerned, you could just be a non VAT trader who is liable to pay the VAT.

 

[Karimbo]

I have supplied the VAT number to the exporting company from the US but my vat number does not appear in the fedex documents. I presume the exporter has not included that. I will ring around and see if the c79 can be backdated. This is quite a tedious process just to bring some equipment into the UK.

 

[NRLtd]

I would get in contact with the exporter.