Information on claiming VAT relief

Welcome to Sandpiper Shoes VAT relief information page. We hope this page will answer any query you may have about VAT relief; eligibility and how to claim.

If you have a query that is not answered on this page please email us at sales@sandpipershoes.com or call us free on 0800 822 3133. Lines are open Mon-Fri 9am-4.45pm (excluding public holidays).

What is VAT relief and who is eligible?

In line with the VAT Act 1994, individuals who are chronically sick or disabled can claim VAT relief on any product that has a “without VAT” price. According to the definition by HM Revenue & Customs a person is “chronically sick or disabled” if he or she:

• Has a physical or mental impairment that has a long-term affect on their ability to carry out everyday activities
• Has a condition that doctors treat as a chronic sickness (e.g. diabetes)
• Is terminally ill

A person with a temporary injury like a broken leg would not qualify, nor would a frail older person who is otherwise well and non-disabled.

The following conditions may also qualify for VAT relief in some circumstances; Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, Oedema/Swollen Feet, Heart Disease, Stroke, Bunion, Hammer Toe, Lymphoedema.

If you are unsure please ask your GP or health visitor as we are not able to give medical advice or diagnosis.

How can I apply for VAT relief?

If you have a qualifying medical condition and would like to apply for VAT Relief simply fill out the ‘Declaration for relief from VAT’ section on our Mail Order brochure order form or complete a dedicated VAT relief claim form and return it to us. It is an offence to make a false declaration.

VAT relief forms need to be posted to us at the following address:
SANDPIPER SHOES, OAKLEY HOUSE, MONKSPOND STREET, NORTHAMPTON, NN1 2LF

To claim VAT relief online at sandpipershoes.com YOU MUST BE LOGGED IN:

• If you already have an online account, simply log in to your account and then complete and submit the online VAT self declaration during the checkout process to receive eligible goods at the "without VAT" price.
• If you do not have an online account, you must register a new account to be able to claim VAT relief in the checkout.
• If you have previously registered for VAT relief, and that registration is still valid, you will automatically recieve VAT relief once you have logged into your account.

Please note: we are unable to process and despatch VAT exempt orders unless we have a signed self declaration for relief from VAT on our system.

What is a self declaration?

Application for VAT relief is a signed self declaration of name, date and medical condition. It does not need the signature of a medical professional to be valid.

When ordering at online at sandpipershoes.com, once logged in, you can complete and submit an online VAT self declaration during the checkout process to receive your goods at the VAT exempt price (where applicable).

Please note: It is an offence to make a false declaration. If you are unsure please ask your GP or health visitor as we are not able to give medical advice or diagnosis.

VAT self declaration forms are available in our Mail Order brochure and submitted by post, available from customer services submitted via email and also available to logged in customers online.

How long does my VAT relief status last?

Your VAT relief status lasts 3 years from the date of application. To continue making VAT relief purchases beyond 3 years requires the submission of a new, signed and dated VAT relief self declaration to extend your VAT relief period for a further 3 years.

Can I order by telephone and receive VAT relief?

Yes. Once we have a valid VAT relief declaration on our system, subsequent orders can be taken on the phone for 3 years until your VAT relief status needs renewing.

If you are a new VAT relief customer we are unable to process your order on the phone until we have received your signed and dated VAT self declaration form. VAT self declaration forms are available in our Mail Order brochure and submitted by post, available from customer services submitted via email and also available to logged in customers online.

Printed VAT relief forms need to be posted to us at the following address:
SANDPIPER SHOES, OAKLEY HOUSE, MONKSPOND STREET, NORTHAMPTON, NN1 2LF, ENGLAND

To claim VAT relief online at sandpipershoes.com YOU MUST BE LOGGED IN:

• If you already have an online account, simply log in to your account and then complete and submit the online VAT self declaration during the checkout process to receive eligible goods at the "without VAT" price.
• If you do not have an online account, you must register a new account to be able to claim VAT relief in the checkout.
• If you have previously registered for VAT relief, and that registration is still valid, you will automatically recieve VAT relief once you have logged into your account.

How do I know which styles are eligible for VAT relief when shopping online?

For all footwear styles eligible for VAT relief the VAT relief price will be displayed prominently alongside the standard price on the website (see below).

Any products with only a standard price displayed are ineligible for VAT relief.