← Commercial Finance Answers

Deposits, VAT & purchase costs

What does no VAT mean on a used commercial vehicle advert?

It describes the seller’s advertised pricing treatment, but the invoice and transaction need checking before finance is arranged.

The practical answer

It describes the seller’s advertised pricing treatment, but the invoice and transaction need checking before finance is arranged.

Ask whether VAT is separately charged, whether any special treatment applies and what the total payable will be. Send the actual quotation rather than assuming the advert gives the complete tax position.

Do not calculate a reclaimable VAT amount from a price without confirming the invoice. The lender and accountant need accurate figures to assess funding and the business’s tax treatment.

Important

Commercial finance is subject to status, lender approval and the specific asset and transaction. The right structure depends on the complete circumstances of the business.

What should I do next?

Have the asset details, supplier information and an outline of what the business needs ready. DCF can then discuss the requirement and identify which lenders may be suitable.

Read: VAT on asset finance →

Explore the relevant guides

Van finance — For commercial vans, conversions and intended use.

Further guidance

HMRC: reclaiming VAT on business expenses