Understanding VAT relief for mobility scooters and stairlifts
If you have a long-term disability, illness or health condition, you are exempt from paying VAT on eligible goods or services. This saves you money on items and equipment needed to support you in everyday life.
To make sense of the UK’s rules around VAT relief for people with disabilities, we have put together this guide. Here we will explore what VAT relief is, who and what items qualify, and how you can apply.
What is VAT relief?
VAT relief means that people with a disability or long-term health condition will not be charged VAT on specific eligible goods or services that are used for personal or domestic applications. This generally refers to items that have been designed or adapted to support a person with a certain condition or disability.
Examples covered by tax relief include mobility equipment, hearing aids, adjustable or specialist furniture, braille paper, adaptive building work for the home, incontinence products, emergency alarm systems, white canes, and many other items. This VAT relief also covers repairs, maintenance and spare parts for such equipment.
Are mobility scooters eligible for VAT relief?
Yes, mobility scooters are eligible for VAT relief if they are being used for your personal use to support you with a long-term disability or illness.
Are stairlifts eligible for VAT relief?
Yes, stairlifts are eligible for VAT relief if they are constructed for domestic or personal use to assist with a long-term disability or condition.
How to apply for VAT relief
Both your disability and the product itself have to qualify for VAT relief, and the product must be intended for personal or domestic use. To qualify, the criteria states that your disability or condition must either be one of the following:
- An impairment which impedes your ability to carry out day-to-day tasks
- A long-term chronic condition, such as epilepsy or diabetes
- A terminal illness
You will also need to confirm that the product or service you wish to buy is also eligible for VAT relief by checking with government guidance and your chosen supplier. The latter will ask for a written declaration from yourself that you qualify for VAT relief and may give you a form to fill out. You will need to provide a declaration with each different supplier you use.
How we can help you
Here at Ideas in Action, we supply a range of mobility equipment to support your independence. This includes mobility scooters, stairlifts, wheelchairs, adjustable furniture and other disability aids.
All items are displayed on our easy-to-navigate site with VAT excluded so you can clearly see the price you will be paying without tax. Our team can also assist with declarations of eligibility.
Welcome to Ideas in Action, your go-to supplier of mobility aids for the West Midlands and beyond. With a fully heated showroom in Birmingham, come and see what we have to offer. Our friendly team is here to help or you can browse our range online.