%
Common VAT rates:
Net Amount
VAT Amount
Gross Amount
| Component | Amount | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Net Price | €0.00 | 0.00% |
| VAT (20%) | €0.00 | 0.00% |
| Gross Price | €0.00 | 100.00% |
There are two common scenarios when calculating VAT:
Example: If you have a product that costs €100 (net) and the VAT rate is 20%:
VAT Amount = €100 × (20 ÷ 100) = €20
Gross Amount = €100 + €20 = €120
Example: If you have a product that costs €120 (gross) and the VAT rate is 20%:
Net Amount = €120 ÷ (1 + (20 ÷ 100)) = €120 ÷ 1.2 = €100
VAT Amount = €120 - €100 = €20
VAT rates vary significantly across different countries. Most countries have a standard rate and one or more reduced rates for essential goods like food, books, or medical supplies.
| Country | Standard Rate | Reduced Rates | Notable Exemptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 20% | 5%, 0% | Most food, books, children's clothes |
| Germany | 19% | 7% | Food, books, medical supplies |
| France | 20% | 10%, 5.5%, 2.1% | Food, hospitality, books, pharmaceuticals |
| Italy | 22% | 10%, 5%, 4% | Food, medical services, social housing |
| Spain | 21% | 10%, 4% | Food, housing, medicines |
| Sweden | 25% | 12%, 6% | Food, books, cultural events |
| Hungary | 27% | 18%, 5% | Basic food, books, medicines |
| United States | No federal VAT | Varies by state (Sales Tax) | Depends on state legislation |
It's important to note that the United States does not have a federal VAT system but instead uses sales tax that varies by state and locality. Sales tax differs from VAT in that it is only collected at the final point of sale, while VAT is collected throughout the supply chain.
VAT has different implications for businesses and consumers. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper financial planning and compliance.
| UK | £85,000 |
| Germany | €22,000 |
| France | €85,800 (goods) / €36,500 (services) |
In most European countries, prices displayed to consumers must include VAT. This is called "VAT-inclusive pricing." In contrast, in countries like the United States, sales tax is typically added at checkout rather than being included in the displayed price.
You can reclaim VAT on business expenses
Check which rate applies to your product
If you're below threshold, you don't charge VAT
This video tutorial explains how to use our VAT calculator effectively. You'll learn how to add or remove VAT from prices, understand different VAT rates across countries, and see practical examples of VAT calculations for both business and personal use.
Running time: 2:25 minutes | Topics: VAT calculation, inclusive vs. exclusive pricing, European tax rates