VAT Calculator
Add or remove VAT from any amount. UK rates for 2026.
Amount before VAT
£500.00
VAT (20%)
£100.00
Total including VAT
£600.00
Quick VAT Reference
| Amount (ex VAT) | VAT at 20% | Total (inc VAT) |
|---|---|---|
| £50 | £10.00 | £60.00 |
| £100 | £20.00 | £120.00 |
| £250 | £50.00 | £300.00 |
| £500 | £100.00 | £600.00 |
| £1,000 | £200.00 | £1,200.00 |
| £5,000 | £1,000.00 | £6,000.00 |
| £10,000 | £2,000.00 | £12,000.00 |
How to Calculate VAT
VAT (Value Added Tax) is a consumption tax added to the price of goods and services in the UK. The standard rate is 20%, but some items qualify for a reduced rate of 5% or are zero-rated (0%).
Adding VAT (20%)
Amount x 1.20 = Total including VAT
Multiply the net amount by 1.20. For example, £500 x 1.20 = £600.
Removing VAT from a total
Total / 1.20 = Amount excluding VAT
Divide the gross amount by 1.20 to get the net price. For example, £600 / 1.20 = £500.
Finding just the VAT amount
Total / 6 = VAT amount (at 20%)
A quick shortcut: divide any VAT-inclusive total by 6 to find just the VAT portion. £600 / 6 = £100 VAT.
What is the 5% reduced rate for?
The reduced 5% VAT rate applies to domestic fuel and power, children's car seats, certain energy-saving materials, and some other specific goods and services. Use the 5% option in the calculator above to check amounts at the reduced rate.
VAT FAQs
What is the current UK VAT rate?
The standard UK VAT rate is 20%. There is also a reduced rate of 5% for certain goods and services, and a zero rate (0%) for essentials like most food and children's clothing.
How do I add 20% VAT to a price?
Multiply the price by 1.20. For example, an item costing £100 before VAT would cost £120 including VAT.
How do I remove VAT from a total?
Divide the VAT-inclusive price by 1.20 to get the price before VAT. For example, £120 / 1.20 = £100 before VAT.
What items are VAT exempt?
VAT-exempt items include insurance, education, health services, and certain financial services. Zero-rated items (charged at 0%) include most food, children's clothing, books, and newspapers.
When do I need to register for VAT?
You must register for VAT if your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in a 12-month period (2026/27 threshold). You can voluntarily register below this threshold.