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Online shopping gets a tax break |
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From next month, internet shoppers will no longer have to pay customs duty on non-EU purchases worth up to £105. Customs duty is currently payable on goods bought online from non-EU countries worth £18 or more. But from 1 December, a new £105 limit will apply. VAT will still be charged on goods over £18, and is not affected by the changes. HMRC have launched a new podcast covering internet shopping, which explains the changes in more detail. As well as duty and VAT, the podcast discusses handling fees, which mail carriers are entitled to charge and collect on delivery, where duty or VAT is payable. The podcast can be downloaded from the HMRC website at http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/podcasts. Speaking about the changes, HMRC's Director of Customs & International, Doug Tweddle, said: "Whether you're looking to get your hands on the latest computer game, designer clothes or DVDs, it's important to be aware of the law on customs charges, especially as this is about to change. "If you're thinking of doing a little web shopping from abroad, download our podcast or visit the HMRC website and get up-to-speed with all things online - it won't cost you a penny. "If you're buying goods from countries outside the EU, it's in your interests to know what the rules are. For example, some websites don't always make clear there is duty or VAT to pay, while others may misrepresent or undervalue your goods to try and avoid paying charges. But if goods are found to be wrongly declared, they may be seized and the customer penalised." On Monday 1 December, the limit for customs duty imported from non-EU countries will increase from 22 euros (£18) to 150 euros (£105). The limit for VAT is not changing and will stay at 22 euros (£18).
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About The Author  Sarah Laing Sarah is a Chartered Tax Adviser. She has been writing professionally since joining CCH Editions in 1998 as a Senior Technical Editor, contributing to a range of highly regarded publications including the British Tax Reporter, Taxes - The Weekly Tax News, the Red & Green legislation volumes, Hardman's, International Tax Agreements and many others. She became Publishing Manager for the tax and accounting portfolio in 2001 and later went on to help run CCH Seminars (including ABG Courses and Conferences). Sarah originally worked for the Inland Revenue in Newbury and Swindon Tax Offices, before moving out into practice in 1991. She has worked for both small and Big 5 firms. She now works as a freelance author providing technical writing services for the tax and accountancy profession. |
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Article Added Monday, 17 November 2008 |
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