UK VAT Calculator
Add VAT to a net price or remove it from a VAT-inclusive total. Supports the UK standard 20%, reduced 5% and zero rates.
All math runs locally in your browser.
UK VAT Rates (2026)
| Rate | Value | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 20% | Most goods and services |
| Reduced | 5% | Home energy, some mobility / safety equipment |
| Zero | 0% | Most food, children's clothes, books, newspapers |
| Exempt | — | Some education, insurance, financial services |
Frequently asked questions
How do I remove 20% VAT from a total?
Divide the gross price by 1.20 to get the net, then subtract the net from the gross to isolate the VAT. At 20% the VAT is exactly one sixth of the gross (£120 gross = £100 net + £20 VAT).
Why can't I just subtract 20% from the gross?
Because VAT is 20% of the net price, not 20% of the bigger gross price. £600 − 20% = £480 is wrong; the correct net is £600 ÷ 1.20 = £500. This is the single most common VAT error.
When must I register for UK VAT?
You must register when your VAT-taxable turnover exceeds the registration threshold over a rolling 12-month period. The threshold can change, so check the current figure on GOV.UK — registration may also be voluntary even if you are below it.