VAT breaks you might not know about

Did you know if you are over 60 and have difficulty walking or have health problems and these are affecting your mobility you could qualify for the VAT relief which was introduced last July?

You could be paying less VAT for any modifications to your home. Do you need your shower or bath changed to walk-in models – you could be paying only 5% VAT instead of 17.5%.

This is news to a lot of people who qualify and could be paying too much VAT.

There have been discussions about how little the Government has done to promote the scheme. Kate Sheehan, an occupational therapist, says: 'The 5% VAT rule is a huge benefit to those people who are adapting their homes to meet their needs now and into the future.

'Unfortunately, however, it is not widely known, so older people are paying over the odds for providing for themselves.'

The Government has confirmed that it is the companies and workmen’s responsibility for providing the relief and they should all be aware as this break was announced in the 2007 Budget.

The Institute of Plumbing has reported is does not know of any VAT exemptions and has not been told or sent any information with details. But without the plumbers and other trade industries working to the guidelines then elderly people are powerless as it is not legally enforceable.

A spokesman for HM Revenue & Customs says: 'This is a civil matter between the plumber or tradesman and the client.’

If you are having any modifications in your home please check to see if you can claim for the VAT break. Some companies may not be aware of this as well as the customers themselves so it will be advisable to bring this to their attention before anything has been agreed or work started.

You can view details on www.hmrc.gov.uk. If you have had any work done to your home due to the above reasons in the last three years again you may be eligible for this relief. Check the above website to find out more.