Those with disabilities in the United Kingdom can qualify for VAT exemption when purchasing disability aids for personal or domestic use. You also do not need to pay the VAT on any installation work undertaken related to the item. 

Those who are disabled can claim VAT relief on various alterations undertaken in the home. Alterations may include the construction of wheelchair ramps, widening of doors and lift installation. 

Which products can be purchase VAT exempt? 

There is a wide range of disability aids on the market which are available VAT exempt. Examples of VAT exempt disability aids include, but are not limited to; 

• Wheelchair ramps 
• Stairlifts
• Wheelchairs and mobility scooters 
• Adjustable beds 
• Lifting equipment including hoists
• Specialist clothing, for example wigs 
• Handrails 

Do I qualify for VAT exemption? 

A wide range of disabilities qualify for VAT exemption.

To receive VAT exemption you need to have a long term illness or disability. For example, a physical or mental impairment which affects you being able to undertake activities, a condition which is considered to be a chronic sickness, such as disabilities or you are terminally ill. You do not have to be claiming disability allowance or own a blue badge to claim VAT exemption. 

Examples of VAT exempt conditions include, but are not limited to:

• Blind
• Deaf
• Epilepsy 
• Cancer 
• COPD 
• Stroke 
• Arthritis 
• Multiple Sclerosis 

Charities can also claim VAT exemption. 

How can I claim VAT exemption? 

When purchasing an item which qualifies for VAT exemption, we recommend speaking to the supplier in relation to how to claim the VAT. The supplier will need you to confirm in writing that you meet the requirements for VAT exemption. If you are a charity, simply provide the charity name and number. 

When you purchase a wheelchair ramp via The Ramp People, when adding the item to your basket on our website we have a VAT exemption declaration box to allow customers to simply enter their name and disability. Once entered the VAT will automatically be removed from the order. 

What additional financial support is available? 

If you support purchasing disability aids, you can contact your council. Councils offer various assistance from providing equipment to adaptations to your home. 

The Disabled Facilities Grant is a national fund used by council's to provide adaptations to homes. At present the maximum grant value is £30,000. The grant is based on your income or savings the amount you will receive will vary depending on your financial status. 

A further way to receive disability equipment is by contacting your doctor. Your doctor can refer you to an occupational therapist, district nurse or physiotherapist. The relevant individual will undertake an assessment to identify what equipment would benefit your requirements and can source this on your behalf from the Community Equipment Service. The Community Equipment Service often provide items such as walking aids, shower stools, adapted cutlery and wheelchair ramps. In general, this equipment is provided on load from the council and is required to be returned when it is no longer required. 

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is available for those with disabilities and long term health conditions and can be used towards the cost of disability aids. PIP is made up of two parts, a daily living part and a mobility part. To receive PIP you will need to complete a form detailing the areas you require support with, your abilities will be assessed to identify the extent of funding required. The amount available varies from £24.45 a week to £92.40 per week. 

Various charities also offer support in providing mobility equipment. For example the Red Cross can loan items such as wheelchairs and toilet aids. 

If you have any questions or require further advice please call 01372 569 051 or email [email protected]