Is a Stairlift VAT-Free?
Most people don't pay the full 20% VAT on a stairlift — you'll usually qualify for one of two reliefs, and we handle the paperwork.
There are two separate VAT reliefs that apply to stairlifts, and most buyers qualify for one of them:
- 0% VAT (fully exempt): if you're chronically sick or disabled. This has a specific legal definition — a physical or mental impairment with a long-term, substantial effect on everyday activities — and you don't need to be formally registered disabled to qualify.
- 5% VAT (reduced rate): if you're aged 60 or over, regardless of disability, as long as the stairlift is supplied and installed by the same company (which is how every stairlift on this site is fitted).
If neither applies, the standard 20% rate applies.
Working out which rate you'll pay
Being over 60 is the more common route for stairlift buyers, and it's a lower bar than most people expect — you don't need a disability or a doctor's letter, just your age confirmed on a short declaration.
- Under 60, chronically sick or disabled: 0% VAT
- Aged 60 or over, any health status: 5% VAT
- Under 60 and not chronically sick or disabled: 20% VAT
What you need to do
Nothing complicated. HMRC requires a short written declaration confirming your eligibility — kept separate from your order form or invoice. We provide this at quote stage, and a family member or carer can sign on your behalf if you're not able to.
Source: HMRC VAT Notice 701/7 — Reliefs from VAT for disabled and older people
Prices where you live
VAT exemption questions
- Do I have to be registered disabled to get 0% VAT?
- No. “Chronically sick or disabled” has its own legal definition for VAT purposes and doesn't require formal disability registration.
- I'm over 60 but not disabled — do I still get a discount?
- Yes. As long as the stairlift is supplied and installed together (as ours always are), you qualify for the reduced 5% rate regardless of health.
- Do I need to prove anything?
- Just a simple written declaration, which we provide and talk you through at quote stage.
- What if I don't qualify for either relief?
- The standard 20% VAT rate applies, already included in any quote you're given.
Find out your rate
Tell us a little about your situation when you book your free survey, and we'll confirm which VAT rate applies before you're quoted a final price.