The VAT rules in the European Union are harmonized (on paper), and every EU Member State must implement these EU VAT rules into their national legislation. That sounds pretty orderly — like a well-oiled machine. Until, of course, someone disagrees about how the machine is supposed to work. That’s where the European Court of
Remember when you were a kid and people constantly asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” And how’s that working out for you? Do you already know? There was an ad on Dutch television that asks this question, and it always triggers something in me. Mostly mild confusion—and the sudden
Many people believe that VAT professionals are wizards. Or sorcerers, even. This is partly because VAT rules are packed with exceptions, special regimes, and conditions that only seem to make sense if you’ve trained at Hogwarts. But it’s also because VAT people often find solutions that others can hardly believe are possible. You may
Cats played a big role in ancient Egypt, where they were prized for keeping homes clear of rats and venomous snakes. Families would name their cats and give them jewelled collars, but they were allowed to roam wherever they pleased. In fact, cats were so revered that when one died, families would mourn by
VAT: Not for me! That’s the slogan used by a Dutch electronics retailer ("BTW: Weg ermee!"), and every time I hear it, I wince just a little. Why? Three reasons. Let’s start with the obvious: 1. It’s misleading.The average consumer hears “no VAT” and assumes they’re getting a 21% discount. That’s the standard VAT rate
As a VAT specialist, I try to stay in shape—both physically and mentally. The physical part ranges from a brisk walk to the coffee machine to proper outdoor activity like biking or jogging. Mentally, nothing keeps the brain fitter than the daily workout called VAT. I’ve picked up running again recently, and I must admit—it’s
