Tom E wrote:
"Debbie" wrote in message
...
A friend of mine has the following VAT problem:

Before I ring the VAT helpline on Monday, I thought I might ask for
opinions here ...

I purchased a Canon f4L 300mm IS lens for £1089.90 from Amazon.co.uk.
Since they are a reputable UK retailer, I expected a VAT receipt to
allow me to reclaim the VAT. Unfortunately, the receipt supplied just
shows VAT as "blank". I have asked them for a new one, but no response
so far.

The lens was actually supplied by their "partner" called
SimplyElectronics, based on the Isle of Man. Their website shows the
same lens as costing £949.95 i.e. pretty much ex-VAT for a company
being outside of the UK.

To me, it looks like Amazon have charged and pocketed the VAT at my
expense.

Any comments, or advice?

Thanks,
Debs

If the op has stated she wants to claim the VAT back WHY are posters saying
only matters if the op is VAT registered. Why would she say she wants to
claim it back if she is NOT registered.

I did not see the OP say that he/she was trying to claim anything back, she
will not be able to reclaim vat unless she is registered for vat. Therefore
if she is not vat registered then it does not matter whether she gets a vat
bill or not, she has just paid a total price, the one she agreed to before
purchase. Or am I completely missing the actual question?