Pay 20% Less on Your Hire: A Simple Guide to VAT Relief
If you are hiring equipment to help with a disability or a long-term illness, you may be eligible for VAT-free hire. This means the price you see is the price you pay, with no tax added on top.
1. Who qualifies?
You (or the person you are hiring for) can claim VAT relief if you meet any of these three criteria:
● A Physical or Mental Impairment: A condition that has a long-term effect on your daily life (e.g., Arthritis, Parkinson’s, MS, or Dementia).
● A Chronic Sickness: A long-term condition that requires ongoing medical treatment (e.g., Diabetes, COPD, or Heart Conditions).
● A Terminal Illness: Any diagnosis of a terminal illness. VAT relief is for long-term needs. You do not qualify if you are only temporarily injured (e.g., a broken leg that will heal in weeks) or if you are elderly but otherwise healthy.
2. Does this apply to hiring?
Yes. Under UK law, the hire or lease of qualifying equipment is treated the same as a purchase. If the product is designed specifically for disabled use (like our specialist beds), the entire hire cost is Zero-Rated for VAT.
3. How do claim?
We keep the paperwork as light as possible so you can focus on your recovery or care.
Sign a Simple Declaration: We provide a one-page form. You simply write the name of the user and their condition (e.g., ‘Parkinson’s’).
No Proof Required: You do not need a doctor’s letter, a blue badge, or a disability certificate. HMRC trusts your self-declaration.
Instant Saving: We remove the 20% VAT from your hire cost immediately.
4. Frequently asked questions
Can a carer or relative sign for me?
Yes. A family member or carer can sign the declaration and pay for the hire on behalf of the person who needs the equipment.
What about delivery and installation?
If the equipment itself is VAT-free, any delivery or setup charges we provide as part of that hire are also VAT-free.