Cheeky VAT question (iRobot Roomba-related!)

manveruppd

manveruppd

manveruppd

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(This isn't a medical advice thread.)
I suffer from chronic allergic rhinitis (I genuinely do, got a prescription for a steroid nose spray and everything). Do you reckon I could get out of paying VAT for an iRobot Roomba or other robot vacuum? I know it sounds a bit flippant, as it's more of a toy than a real cleaning tool, but I think it would actually help if I set it to vacuum while I was out. Vacuuming and even sweeping tends to cause dust to fly about and makes my allergy worse, would be nice if I didn't have to be around for the worst of it. So the question is, how do you go about getting a VAT exemption? I suppose you'd need a letter from your GP (which I'm sure I can get), but do all retailers deduct the VAT from the sale price if you present it, or do you have to claim a refund from the taxman later yourself?
 
Only one way to find out. :P I do think you can email them in advance with the letter posted to them to organise something.

They are awesome little things, seen them a few times. Especially when it magically "finds" it's charging station and starts where it left off. Even you move it.
 
If it isn't an approved medical device from an authorised medical reseller, then I doubt you can claim anything.
Worth asking the taxman anyway, give them a call.
 
I've found one etailer that has an "are you exempt from VAT?" checkbox you can click during the checkout process, with space for you to put your reasons underneath. I was planning to order today before the VAT rose to 20%, but I think I'll hold off and give my doctor a ring. It's only an extra £6 if I can't swing an exemption, but over £40 off if I can, so it's worth the risk! :p
 
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