VAT Calculator

About VAT Calculator

VAT added to a net price, or taken back out of a gross one. The second direction is the one worth having a tool for: a price that includes 20% VAT is the price divided by 1.2, and subtracting 20% instead is a mistake that shows up on invoices every day.

The rate is a free field rather than a list because VAT rates vary by country and by what is being sold — 20% standard in the UK, 5% reduced, 0% on children's clothes and most food; 19, 21, 23 and 25 across Europe.

The result shows the sum it did, so the arithmetic can be checked at a glance rather than taken on trust.

Where it helps

• Both directions, and it shows the sum so the arithmetic can be checked.
• Any rate, because VAT is not one number across countries or goods.
• Gives net, VAT and gross together, which is the shape an invoice line needs.
• Runs locally — nothing about your prices leaves the browser.

Limits

• One rate at a time: a basket with mixed rates has to be worked out line by line.
• It does not know registration thresholds, reverse charges, margin schemes or exemptions.
• Rounding rules differ between jurisdictions and invoice systems; this rounds to two decimals.
• It is arithmetic, not tax advice.

Frequently asked questions

Why is subtracting the rate wrong?

Because the rate was applied to the smaller number. £100 plus 20% is £120; £120 less 20% is £96. To reverse it you divide by 1.2, which is what the remove direction does.

What is the UK standard rate?

20%, with a 5% reduced rate on things like domestic fuel and a 0% rate on most food, books and children's clothing.

Is VAT the same as sales tax?

No. VAT is charged and reclaimed at every stage of the chain and only the final consumer bears it; US sales tax is charged once at the point of sale. The arithmetic here works for either.

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