Originally Posted by Matt Finley
I also just learned that the VAT % differs by country.
It can and often is worse than that ... there can different rates within the same country, depending upon the Government's or tax authorities perception of the goods, for example in the UK, food, educational goods and publications are zero rated. But some 'luxury foods' are not classed as foods and get 20%. Fruit juice is a food, but a smoothie is classed a 'luxury' item and is taxed at 20%. "Go figure" is the expression that comes to mind.

It's also liable on every transfer of goods, B2B or retail. Larger businesses claim it back on purchases and have to charge it again on sales.

I'd hoped that when the UK left the EU we'd be willing to dump VAT, but I rather doubt that will ever happen.

Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful.
AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11
BIAB2025 Audiophile, a bunch of other software.
Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts
.