VAT relief guidance
Understanding VAT Exemption
At Hartwell Living, we believe comfort, independence and quality of life should be accessible to everyone.
If you have a qualifying disability or long-term health condition, you may be entitled to purchase certain specialist chairs and adjustable beds without paying VAT.
Our friendly team is here to help you understand whether you qualify.
The essentials
What is VAT Relief, and Who Can Claim It?
In the UK, certain products designed specifically to help people with disabilities or long-term health conditions may qualify for VAT relief, known legally as zero-rating.
This means eligible customers can purchase qualifying products at a 0% VAT rate rather than paying the standard 20%. To qualify, three important conditions generally need to be met:
01
A qualifying condition
The individual has a qualifying disability or chronic health condition.
02
A qualifying product
The product itself qualifies for VAT relief under HMRC rules.
03
Eligible use
The product is being purchased for eligible personal or domestic use.
VAT relief is not means-tested, and you do not need to receive disability benefits or be officially registered as disabled.
Being over a certain age does not, on its own, establish eligibility.
Eligibility checker
Could You Qualify for VAT Relief?
Answer a few simple questions to understand whether VAT relief may be available on your Hartwell Living purchase.
Health conditions
What Health Conditions May Qualify?
Eligibility depends on the nature and impact of a condition, rather than simply whether it appears on a list.
- Arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Stroke-related disabilities
- Cerebral palsy
- Motor neurone disease
- Chronic respiratory conditions
- Significant mobility impairments
- Certain long-term neurological conditions
- Other qualifying chronic illnesses or disabilities
This list is illustrative, not exhaustive. Having one of these conditions does not automatically guarantee VAT relief, and many other conditions may qualify. Customers who are temporarily injured, or elderly without a qualifying disability or chronic illness, do not qualify solely on those grounds.
How to claim
How to Claim VAT Relief
- 1
Choose Your Furniture
Explore our collection of premium rise and recline chairs, specialist seating and adjustable beds.
- 2
Confirm Your Eligibility
Our advisors will help you understand the qualifying requirements for your chosen product.
- 3
Complete a Simple Declaration
If eligible, complete a VAT relief declaration confirming the relevant disability or long-term health condition and intended use of the product.
- 4
Enjoy Your Hartwell Furniture
Once eligibility and product qualification are confirmed, we can apply the appropriate VAT treatment to your purchase.
Declarations are kept separate from orders and are always reviewed by our team. VAT relief is never applied automatically.
Clear pricing
How VAT Relief Affects Pricing
Illustrative product price — not a Hartwell Living price
£1,200 including VAT
£1,000 excluding VAT — for qualifying purchases only
VAT-free pricing is available only where both the customer and product meet HMRC’s eligibility requirements. Any actual tax calculation uses the correct VAT rate for the product and supply.
Your questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Official HMRC guidance
- Reliefs from VAT for disabled and older people (VAT Notice 701/7)(opens in a new tab)
- VAT relief for charities on goods and building work for disabled people(opens in a new tab)
- How charities claim VAT relief(opens in a new tab)
This page provides general guidance and is not tax advice. Last reviewed: Guidance draft — pending professional tax review.
We’re Here to Help You Understand Your Options
Choosing the right furniture is an important decision. Our friendly Hartwell Living advisors can help you explore our collection, understand VAT relief and find a solution tailored to your comfort and needs.
Or request a free Hartwell Living brochure