Two quick answers in one tool: how much VAT is in an amount, and whether you should charge VAT at all when your client is in another country. Rates are the current standard and reduced rates for all 27 EU countries, plus the UK, Norway, and Switzerland.
Adding and removing VAT
- Add VAT to a net price: gross = net × (1 + rate). For example, €100 at 21% is €121.
- Remove VAT from a gross price: net = gross ÷ (1 + rate). For example, €121 at 21% contains €21 VAT.
Removing VAT is where most mistakes happen. Taking 21% off €121 gives €95.59, not €100.
When does the reverse charge apply?
For services to a VAT-registered business in another EU country, the general rule is that VAT is due where the customer is, and your client accounts for it themselves. You invoice at 0%, show both VAT numbers, and add a reverse-charge note. The checker gives you the wording to use. Goods shipped to an EU business are an intra-community supply, also at 0%, with proof of transport.
Other situations work differently:
- Same country: charge your local VAT as normal.
- Private customers elsewhere in the EU: usually your own VAT, until your cross-border consumer sales pass €10,000 a year. After that you charge the customer's country's VAT, typically through the One-Stop Shop.
- Clients outside the EU: business services are generally outside the scope of EU VAT; exported goods are zero-rated.
The checker covers these general rules. Construction, events, property, digital services to consumers, and margin schemes have special rules, so check those with your accountant. For more context, see how to invoice international clients.
VAT done for you
Billebly applies your VAT rate per line, shows a proper breakdown when lines carry different rates, handles reverse charge with the correct wording, and gives every line the right VAT category in the EN 16931 e-invoice it attaches to each invoice.
Frequently asked questions
By the Billebly team · Last updated 3 October 2026