Hi there, we are just about to buy a caravan ( put a deposit down ) after tenting it for many years
My friend told me that we could get the VAT back on the caravan as my daughter who uses a wheelchair and claims high rate disability allowance is going to be using the caravan and we will have to fit a grab rail in the caravan in order for her to get into it
You can get the VAT back on a motorhome if in receipt of the Mobility component but not a caravan because it has to be declared as a form of transport so the disabled person receiving the benefit can get around. Because a caravan doesn't have a motor it is classed as an item of luxury so is exempt from being rewarded back the VAT.
Hi Tango
Not going to disagree with you on this. As i know nothing about the issue.
But over the years i have seen a number of vans converted to, accomadate disabled access, and the interior altered for that reason.
Do you still have to pay vat on them when new, or seconed hand?
The vat rate charged on caravans is quite complicated. Different rates for different fittings. It's possible the cost of conversion for disabled use could be vat free.
Ray ,
Without checking out the law books thouroughly , I agree with Tango.
I have also seen caravans converted for the disabled but all have been converted at owners cost.
Jo, if you can get support to make your daughters life happier I wish you well.
Good luck.
Regards,
Greg
thank you folks, I know that I recently bought a new wheelchair for her and we got the VAT off that and also we did crowdfunding to a wheelchair bike for her and we got Vat off that also so wasn't sure but thought it was worth asking
We are currently tent users so can get her in and out of the tent quite easily but she is cold at night so we've decided to take the bull by the horns and upgrade so she has a bit of luxury
I am registered disabled myself and use a wheelchair, a scooter and a special step with more shallow gentil steps than you would normally find outside most caravans. My bed has also been converted so that l can sleep almost upright by using a high density foam bedprop. I also bought my caravan new, and its the only way that l can holiday in comfort knowing that my needs will be met once on site.
So yes, l did ask the question regarding Vat, but the answer was a firm No on the cost of the caravan itself, and this would be the same if its a new or secondhand unit.
Like you say, all my scooter costs, new batteries, wheelchairs, specialist shoes, pick sticks, car hoist, caravan step, and bed conversion were free from VAT, my Caravan was not, l paid the same price as everyone else would.
Julia
------------- Just love to be out amoungst Nature and Wildlife
Celebrating 37 years of Caravanning in 2019, Recently Considered Retiring, but Totally Addicted for Life!
Any components that are directly linked with a persons disability needs will automatically be VAT exempt so if any special aids are fitted directly to the caravan then yes, these will apply. However, like I said in my first post, the purchase of a caravan will not be VAT exempt whether it be new or used but a motorhome would be but only if the vehicle is purchased brand new from a dealer but not eligible if buying second hand. The process is not that simple though as there are numerous forms to complete first which has to go through the appropriate authorities prior to being granted the tax free leisure vehicle.
If you need confirmation of this then go to any official caravan and motorhome dealer and they will confirm what the current UK legislation is regarding VAT exemptions on leisure vehicles.
Hi what van are you buying? I see you have paid a deposit but you can get some ideas for disabled people by looking at Adrias,they do a model specifically for wheelchair users,Wider door lower fittings etc,good luck with your new venture I'm sure you will enjoy it that much more.
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Topic: caravan for disabled person
