Can I Deduct Restaurant Costs Without VAT Invoice?

jamies-taylor

Just set up my BV in Belgium and waiting on VAT activation. Paid some restaurant bills from my personal account without VAT invoices. Can I still reimburse myself and claim these expenses later?

Katie

Hi Jamies,

Apologies, I’m not sure what you mean by “Just set up my BV in Belgium”

If you’re running a UK business, you can claim the cost of some meals while working as business expenses. If you paid for these personally, then yes, you can reimburse yourself for this cost from the business.

If you’re looking to reclaim VAT from your expenses, you can only do so if you’re registered under a VAT scheme that allows this (usually Standard rate VAT, with a few exceptions for Flat rate). The supplier has to be VAT registered too, and your receipt will show either a breakdown of VAT charged or their VAT number.

Thanks,
Katie

jamies-taylor

Katie
Thanks, Katie. BV is a Belgian private limited company. I’ll reimburse myself for the net cost and wait until my VAT is active to claim future expenses with proper VAT invoices.

Katie

jamies-taylor

Thanks for the clarification.

Please note that the advice provided here applies specifically to UK limited companies.

Unfortunately, we can’t provide guidance on overseas entities. The best thing to do would be to find a Belgian accountant, as they’ll know the tax regulations that affect you.

All the best,
Katie

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