VAT consultancy

Cybertax provides a wide range of consultancy services relating to the VAT issues of setting up, re-structuring and running of a commercial website or an e-business.

General

• Employing the correct business model to secure the maximum VAT optimisation.
• Where “bricks and mortar” (orders via paper, fax or telephone) as well as web based sales channels are used, structuring customer contracts in a VAT-efficient manner.
• Fulfilment of low-value goods from appropriate jurisdictions so that maximum advantage can be taken of available tax exemptions and government concessions. Re-structuring an existing business or setting-up a new business to take advantage of offshore fulfilment opportunities.
• The VAT aspects of web based advertising and marketing including the risks involved in using affiliate websites.
• The VAT advantages and pitfalls of outsourcing non-core activities to locations within the EU as well as to countries outside the EU (e.g “offshore” outsourcing to India).  Structuring outsourcing agreements in a VAT efficient manner.
• VAT aspects of Intellectual Property and Brand name management.
• Using Intermediaries such as commissionaire agents, sales agents or trusted third parties VAT-efficiently.
• Setting up a procurement or supply chain infrastructure so that the speed of VAT recovery is maximised and the risk of irrecoverable VAT is minimised.  This service is part of our VAT cash flow planning service.
• VAT health checks to identify areas of risks and uncover opportunities for VAT savings.
• The VAT implications of electronic invoicing: the EU rules.
• Structuring supplies VAT-efficiently:  bundling and unbundling products and services, composite and mixed supplies.
• VAT aspects of pricing on web sites: reduce the risk of customers returning products if faced with unexpected bills for VAT and duty on goods delivery.
• Taking advantage of the “Special VAT Scheme” for digital downloads  to EU consumers by suppliers established outside the EU.
• Advice on the VAT aspects of telecommunications services.  Knowing the critical difference between “access” and “content” if you are an ISP or other on-line service provider.

VAT registration and compliance

• Know when to register and reduce the risk of penal fines for non-registration: there are many different types of VAT registrations.
• Registrations when trading in goods – “in-country”, on imports, intra-EC trade or “distance-selling”.
• Registrations when supplying services: “Special Scheme” for digital downloads, registrations for ISPs and telecommunications operators, etc.
• Preparation and submission of VAT Returns and other mandatory reports to the authorities on your behalf.
• Attendance and guidance on VAT audits and inspections.
• Resolving any existing disputes you may currently have with VAT authorities.
• Obtaining reclaims of VAT your business may have suffered in the EU.