Panzer Kaserne, Bldg. 2915, Room 125
Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Closed weekends and US Holidays
Phone: 431-3368, Commercial +49 (0)7031-15-3368
Fax: 431-3367 Commercial Fax +49 (0)7031-15-3367
When you are going to make a purchase you will need:
VAT Form Rules:
Who Takes VAT?
VAT forms are a great way to save money but there are rules about using VAT forms you must know and follow. Here are five frequently encountered problems where you need to be cautious.
- 1. Know where your VAT forms were. VAT forms are controlled. You must account for every form issued to you. In the wrong hands, it provides tax benefits to unauthorized people. Using the VAT form drop box is convenient, but does not guarantee forms clear the system. Keep a copy of each form used. If you can’t account for form(s), the VAT office requires you sign a statement acknowledging the loss. The repeated loss of forms can lead to the suspension of your VAT privileges.
- 2. Clear all VAT forms before you PCS. You must clear the VAT office before you leave. Turn in unused forms (sorry, no refunds) and ensure all used forms are cleared in the system. If you should return to Germany and want to get VAT forms, having unaccounted forms can prevent you from getting new forms. Make sure the VAT office is a late stop, once you clear VAT forms, you can’t use anymore. If you PCS within Germany, you can keep your forms but the VAT office needs to update your file.
- 3. Do not split a purchase to stay under €2500. Be safe, when a purchase(s) exceeds €2499.99; get an NF 2 VAT form. When clearing returned forms, the VAT office looks for multiple purchases at the same store on the same day. If purchases exceed €2500, they will contact you. Because splitting purchases violates SOFA agreements, you might lose your VAT privileges and/or be required to pay the VAT.
- 4. Purchasing Heating Oil. Filling a large oil tank can cost more than €2500. Unfortunately, you might not know that until after the oil is in your tank and it is too late for an NF 2 purchase. To be truly safe, insist the oil company put less than €2500 in and return another day. The VAT office knows the oil companies that understand the VAT process.
- 5. A company does not accept a check. When purchases exceed €2500, the process requires payment by a counter signed bank check. There are no other ways. Almost all companies know this and gladly accept the check. However, some do not. Always have a copy of the VAT handouts with you to show a store if needed. When your purchase exceeds €2500, double check the store will accept the check. The VAT office will help you but they are more effective when working in advance.