VAT rebate

50Twuncle

I am looking into buying a NON-ADJUSTABLE memory foam bed - I have severe back problems (verified by my GP) and was wondering whether VAT could be reclaimed on a Fixed bed - or whether the rules only state "Adjustable" ??

System

HMRC Notice 701/7 states
"Electrically or mechanically adjustable beds, chair or stair lifts, hoists and lifters, sanitary devices"

50Twuncle

The rules need changing then - adjustable beds are not suited for every condition.....

Tim_Deegan

I think it is because we all need a bed, but a dissability could mean that you need a special bed like an adjustable one.

However if you do have a dissability that qualifies you for DLA. And your doctor has told you that a memory foam mattress could help with the dissability, then you would qualify for VAT exemption.

Indie_Kid

Being on DLA is irrelevant. I get my adapted products vat free and that was before I was awarded DLA.

50Twuncle

Tim_Deegan wrote: »

I think it is because we all need a bed, but a dissability could mean that you need a special bed like an adjustable one.

However if you do have a dissability that qualifies you for DLA. And your doctor has told you that a memory foam mattress could help with the dissability, then you would qualify for VAT exemption.

Is this just a "guess" - or do you have any evidence ?

dmg24

Have you tried a memory foam mattress? They do not benefit everybody with back problems. My friend is a physio, and does not recommend them.

Invasion

I love my memory foam mattress topper, but I don't have a back problem as such... Worth trying one out as they don't suit everyone.. I'd have thought with back probs you'd have needed a firmer mattress? They also keep you very warm, nice in winter, not so nice in summer.

You can get the memory foam mattress VAT free if you have a long term disability that requires a memory foam mattress.

50Twuncle

Invasion wrote: »

I love my memory foam mattress topper, but I don't have a back problem as such... Worth trying one out as they don't suit everyone.. I'd have thought with back probs you'd have needed a firmer mattress? They also keep you very warm, nice in winter, not so nice in summer.

You can get the memory foam mattress VAT free if you have a long term disability that requires a memory foam mattress.

This is a memory foam bed - a KAYMED with 2 layers of different density memory foam and a seperate layer of honeycomb latex - ordered this morning - I suddenly realised that, had I gone for an adjustable - then claiming back the VAT would have been a simple "fill in the standard form" exercise - hence the query.......
Where can I find out about this ?
Incidentally - from what I gather - memory foam is supposed to be warm in winter and cool in summer (wicking away heat)

Tim_Deegan

sh1305 wrote: »

Being on DLA is irrelevant. I get my adapted products vat free and that was before I was awarded DLA.

It isn't irrelevant, it's a good guide to go by. If your dissability isn't serious enough to qualify for DLA, then it is unlikely that you would qualify for a VAT exemption.

Tim_Deegan

21Twinkle wrote: »

Is this just a "guess" - or do you have any evidence ?

It's what I was told when I contacted Customs & Excise. It's the sort of thing you do need to know as a trader. If in doubt then call them.