VAT on eu goods

[Archangel]

I’ve bought some goods (cutting blades) from a large company based in Germany. They have arrived with no problems, customs charges etc.

they cost €233 including postage

can I claim any VAT Back? And if so, how?

I’m not on flat rate VAT

I’ve read through the FreeAgent guidance which suggests posting journal entries but I don’t know why I’d do that. I’ve so far entered the bill in euros onto FreeAgent without accounting for the VAT

I’ve tried to read the HMRC guidance but find it confusing.

I don’t have an accountant.

edit: I’m based in England

TIA

[Paralytic]

Did the supplier charge VAT? ie. did the €233 include a VAT portion?

[Archangel]

Did the supplier charge VAT? ie. did the €233 include a VAT portion?

there is no mention of VAT on the invoice, I had to supply the selling company with my VAT number, so I probably wasn’t charged VAT.

If I read the HMRC guidelines correctly I have to account for the VAT on my return but can claim it back on the same return, why is this necessary?

[Archangel]

I’ve posted the journals on FreeAgent, the VAT amount just appears on both sides of the VAT equation. What a waste of effort!

[Paralytic]

there is no mention of VAT on the invoice, I had to supply the selling company with my VAT number, so I probably wasn’t charged VAT.

If I read the HMRC guidelines correctly I have to account for the VAT on my return but can claim it back on the same return, why is this necessary?

If you weren't charged VAT, why is this an issue?

I'd advise either getting an accountant, or phoning the HMRC helpline - they actually can sometimes be helpful.