Claiming Tax back from hols

Woolwich_Kim

Hi,

I'll be off to the US very soon and a conversation with someone jogged my memory on something.

I recall years ago I was told that if I kept all my receipts, I could claim the tax back at the airport, is this correct and if so, where exactly at the airport and are there any exceptions (e.g. food, clothing, electronics etc)?

Also, last xmas I ordered a dvd set on Amazon that was sent from the USA. Upon arrival, I had to pay nearly £14 in custom charges before I was able to pick it up. Would it be a problem when flying back home if I had brought stuff whilst out there? I don't plan on buying anything major but I do plan to do some shopping.

Alan_Bowen

Sales tax is not recoverable, it used to be for purchases in Canada but I believe that has ended as well. As regards buying goods, you have an allowance of £390 before you may have to pay tax

dzug1

In relation to the USA you were told wrong - there is no scheme there and AFAIK never has been.

Exception - Louisiana, I believe, but only at shops that have signed up to the scheme . Not sure how many international airports there are in Louisiana to make it usable.....

There used to be a scheme in Canada (hotel bills only) but they got rid of it years ago.

You can bring a fair bit back from the USA:

http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/customs/arriving/arrivingnoneu.htm#1

Woolwich_Kim

Thanks, think I was about to go to Australia when someone told me so just wondered.