Skip to main content
March 27, 2024
Question

Should I charge VAT on hotel expenses that I invoice to my client?

  • March 27, 2024
  • 1 reply
  • 0 views
I.e. I pay £152 (£126.67 plus £25.33 VAT), my contract is to invoice my client “at cost”, should this be £152 plus £30.40  VAT?

1 reply

March 27, 2024

VAT is charged based on several factors, ocaas. 

 

First, your VAT registration status. If your company is VAT-registered, you need to add VAT to the invoiced hotel expenses. If your company is not VAT-registered, you should not charge VAT. 

 

Second, the type of client you have. If your client is also VAT-registered, they may be able to reclaim the VAT you charge on the invoice. If your client is not VAT-registered or unable to reclaim VAT, adding VAT could increase the overall cost for them. 

 

Third, the nature of expenses. You need to determine if the hotel expenses are subject to VAT at the standard rate, or reduced rate, or if they are exempt or zero-rated. This classification will impact whether you should charge VAT to your client. 

 

Lastly, your contract terms. Your contract terms specifying that you invoice "at cost" may also be a factor. It's essential to clarify with your client whether the "at cost" invoicing should include VAT or not. 

 

To ensure compliance with VAT regulations and determine the appropriate approach to hotel expenses, it's best to seek advice from a tax professional. 

 

You can then refer to this article on creating a custom VAT rate: Set up and edit VAT settings, codes, and rates in QuickBooks Online.

 

Additionally, you can also set up a VAT reminder in QuickBooks to stay on top of important deadlines.

 

Return to this thread if you have other concerns with your VAT. We'll be here to help you in any way we can.