Valuable VAT refund scheme for museums and galleries reopens

HMRC have announced that the VAT Refund Scheme for museums and galleries will be open to new applicants in the autumn.

The scheme allows museums and galleries to claim refunds of VAT incurred on their costs where they open free of charge to the public for at least 30 hours a week.

The scheme was last open to new applicants in 2018-19.

Museums and galleries that meet the following criteria, in full, can apply:

• They must open to the public for at least 30 hours per week, every week;
• Free entry must be offered without appointment;
• Collections must be held in a purpose built building; and
• Details of free entry and opening hours must be displayed on the museum/gallery website.

Any museums or galleries meeting these criteria should consider applying for the scheme.

Museums and galleries urged to sign up for VAT refund to support free entry for the public – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)