Newspapers are usually zero-rated (0% VAT) in the UK, but only if they meet HMRC's conditions: contains a substantial amount of news (a newsprint-style brochure is still zero-rated, as a brochure) (HMRC VAT Notice 701/10, paragraph 3.5).
PRIVATE & CONFIDENTIAL
Newspapers are zero-rated. I read that with some regret.
Newspapers
0% VAT
Newspapers are zero-rated.
0% as long as it's:
Contains a substantial amount of news (a newsprint-style brochure is still zero-rated, as a brochure)
Newspapers are usually zero-rated (0% VAT) in the UK, but only if they meet HMRC's conditions: contains a substantial amount of news (a newsprint-style brochure is still zero-rated, as a brochure) (HMRC VAT Notice 701/10, paragraph 3.5). Newspapers are zero-rated.
When would newspapers be charged at 20% VAT?
The zero rate applies as long as it's: contains a substantial amount of news (a newsprint-style brochure is still zero-rated, as a brochure). If one of those isn't true, it's likely to be standard-rated at 20%.
Is the design and artwork for newspapers zero-rated too?
If your printer does the design, typesetting or finishing as part of the same zero-rated print job, that work can be zero-rated too. Design bought separately from a studio is a standard-rated service.
Where does this come from?
HMRC VAT Notice 701/10, paragraph 3.5, HMRC's guidance on zero rating books and printed matter. Read the notice on GOV.UK ↗
