Your organisation falls under either a school or charity group or runs as an unregistered VAT entity. The VAT126 form allows you to reclaim VAT from HMRC. This document explains everything about making the VAT126 claim including the procedure and guidelines for help. The document adopts child-friendly concepts through brief statements and easy vocabulary that matches an 11-year-old learner’s comprehension level.

What is the VAT126 Form?

The  form VAT126 originates from HMRC (His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs). VAT reimbursement through this system is available to specific people and organizations.

VAT126 Form

But who can use it?

The HMRC VAT126 form is available for use only under these conditions:

Businesses that never registered for VAT can access the HMRC VAT126 form.

The form VAT126  works for one if they represent a local authority or school or charity or a similar non-profit organization.

They received goods or services containing VAT tax.

Proceed to the next section if your situation matches this description. The VAT126 Form allows individuals to potentially recover funds.

What is a VAT126 Claim?

You can use the VAT126 claim to request VAT reimbursements for expenses that include items such as:

  • Classroom supplies
  • Office stationery
  • Cleaning services
  • Building repairs

The VAT126 claim form which you submit to HMRC undergoes HMRC verification. You will receive your VAT refund from HMRC when they validate the correct submission of your request.

Who Can Use the HMRC VAT126 Form?

The following groups of organizations can submit VAT126 form applications:

  • Local councils
  • Parish councils
  • Government departments
  • NHS trusts
  • State-funded schools and academies
  • Under special rules charities can access this benefit

People who hold VAT registration cannot apply this form for taxation benefits. Then proceed with your standard VAT return methods instead.

Where to Get the VAT126 Form?

The official HMRC website provides an option to download the form VAT126. Online filing of the VAT126 through the Government Gateway represents another option. Here’s how to do both:

Option 1: Paper Form

  • Go to www.gov.uk
  • Search for “VAT126”
  • Enter your Government Gateway ID credentials
  • Complete the form
  • Submit it online

Option 2: Paper Form (if needed)

  • Download the PDF form from the pages of HMRC
  • Print and fill it out
  • Mail it off to HMRC’s address
  • Filing it online is much quicker and secure. Besides, you’ll get updates about it through email.
  • What You Need Before Getting Started
  • In making a claim for VAT126, you must have:
  • Invoices showing VAT has been paid
  • Proof of payment
  • Name of your organisation
  • Unique Reference Number (URN)
  • Government Gateway login (if online claim)
  • Always keep your receipts and make copies.
  • HMRC may require you to see them later on.

VAT126 Form

Example of a VAT126 Claim

Here is a simple example:

  • Let’s assume a school bought new whiteboards, costing £1,200, inclusive of £200 VAT.
  • Not being VAT-registered, they fill in the VAT126 form. They:
  • Upload documents for the £200 VAT
  • Input the URN and payment details
  • Submit the form online

A couple of weeks later, HMRC sent them a refund of £200. Another example of a successful VAT126 claim.

What is a VAT126 claim service for HMRC?

Some agents provide an HMRC VAT126 claim service. The basis of this is simple:

  • They handle the paperwork
  • They understand the rules
  • They rapidly pursue your refund
  • It comes into play if:
  • You are busy
  • You do not understand the proceedings
  • You want to avoid making a mistake

These services can also charge a small fee or work on commission.

Important Points for Use of VAT126 Form

  • Keep records: Always save your invoices and receipts.
  • Use correct names: Ensure your organization name is as per your registration.
  • For verification: Claims made older than 4 years will not be entertained.
  • Be honest: Do not claim VAT on something that you had no entitlement to reclaim.
  • Query: Never hesitate in reaching a professional or HMRC if at all you have doubt.

Final Word: To VAT126 form or not? 

Yes, if you are working in a school or local council or company or register NGO which is not VAT that means you have incurred VAT on it. Yes, thus always you would fill in the form of VAT126. 

This, indeed, would save money. Each year, the number of schools and local authorities enters it using DIY or VAT126 claims service; it is really quite easy to do, rather than how it appears.

FAQs

Can a private business avail of VAT126? 

No. This form is meant only for non-VAT registered public bodies and charities. 

How long does a VAT126 claim take? 

Usually, it takes around 2-4 weeks, counting from the date HMRC received your form. 

Can I claim without receipts? 

No. Evidence of VAT payment needs to be provided. 

Is there any help? 

Yes. By contacting HMRC or through an HMRC VAT126 claim service.

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Published On: May 1st, 2025 / Views: 134 /

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