Information that must be given on a VAT invoice

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What should a VAT invoice contain?

A VAT registered trader making a supply to another taxable person must issue a VAT invoice within 30 days of the relevant tax point.

A VAT invoice must contain certain information including:

  • VAT registration number

  • The tax point

  • The rate of VAT for each supply

  • The VAT exclusive amount for each supply

  • The total VAT exclusive amount

  • The amount of VAT payable

  • The invoice date and invoice number

  • The type of supply

  • The quantity and description of the goods supplied

  • The company’s name and address

  • The name and address of the customer

If a sales invoice is meant to be valid for VAT purposes i.e. a separate VAT invoice does not need to be issued, then all of the above needs to be included in the sales invoice.

Otherwise, a separate VAT invoice will need to be issued.


A VAT invoice must be issued within 30 days of making a taxable supply.

VAT records(including VAT invoices) must normally be retained for six years.

Simplified VAT invoice

A less detailed VAT invoice may be issued by a taxable person where the invoice is for a total including VAT of up to £250. 

Such an invoice must show:

  1. The supplier’s name, address and registration number

  2. The date of the supply

  3. A description of the goods or services supplied

  4. The rate of VAT chargeable

  5. The total amount chargeable including VAT

Zero-rated and exempt supplies must not be included in less detailed invoices.

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