VAT Calculator
Add or remove VAT from any amount instantly. Works for standard rate (20%), reduced rate (5%) and zero rate.
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Flat rate scheme
Compare what you'd pay on the flat rate scheme vs standard VAT.
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Flat rate vs standard scheme
Assuming standard 20% VAT charged to customers, no reclaimable input VAT.
Results are estimates only and do not constitute financial advice.
Common VAT amounts at standard rate (20%)
Click any row to load it into the calculator above.
| Net amount | VAT at 20% | Gross (incl. VAT) |
|---|
How VAT works
VAT-registered businesses charge VAT on their sales (output VAT) and reclaim VAT on their purchases (input VAT). The difference between output and input VAT is paid to HMRC each quarter.
The standard rate of 20% applies to most goods and services. The reduced rate of 5% applies to home energy, children's car seats and a few other items. Zero rate (0%) applies to most food, children's clothes, books and newspapers.
Some goods and services are exempt from VAT (financial services, insurance, education) — exempt sales are different from zero-rated and have different consequences for input VAT.
Frequently asked questions
You must register if your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any rolling 12-month period. You can also register voluntarily below this threshold.
A simplified VAT scheme for small businesses. You pay a fixed percentage of gross turnover to HMRC instead of tracking input/output VAT.
Yes on the standard scheme, for business expenses. Limited reclaim on the flat rate scheme. Keep VAT invoices for everything you claim.
The VAT registration threshold for 2026/27 is £90,000 turnover. If your taxable turnover exceeds this in any 12-month period you must register for VAT.