Socrates Socratous | CTG webinar on VAT and non-business activities (10 June 2025)
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Last updated: 13 Jun 2025
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Charity Tax Group webinar: Socrates Socratous shares insights on VAT non-business activities

Non-business activities can limit a charity's VAT recovery, but the rules aren't always clear. In a recent webinar hosted by Charity Tax Group, Socrates Socratous explored how to approach the distinction between business and non-business and apply HMRC guidance in practice.

On Tuesday 10 June, Socrates Socratous, Partner and Head of VAT Consultancy joined Charity Tax Group (CTG) for a webinar focused on helping charities understand the VAT implications of non-business activities.

Unlike exempt or zero-rated income, non-business income falls entirely outside the scope of VAT, which can restrict a charity’s ability to recover input tax. However, the line between business and non-business activities isn’t always obvious, especially where grants, contracts, and mixed-use income streams are involved.

In this session, Socrates broke down:

  • How to determine whether income is business or non-business
  • The two stage test now applied by HMRC
  • Examples of how the rules are being applied in practice
  • What the distinction means for VAT recovery and partial exemption

Whether you’re reviewing your organisation’s VAT position or preparing for a challenge from HMRC, this webinar offers clear, practical guidance on a notoriously grey area.

Watch the full recording and download the slides on CTG’s website: Events - Charity Tax Group

About the author

Socrates Socratous

+44 (0)20 8037 3113
socratouss@buzzacott.co.uk
LinkedIn

On Tuesday 10 June, Socrates Socratous, Partner and Head of VAT Consultancy joined Charity Tax Group (CTG) for a webinar focused on helping charities understand the VAT implications of non-business activities.

Unlike exempt or zero-rated income, non-business income falls entirely outside the scope of VAT, which can restrict a charity’s ability to recover input tax. However, the line between business and non-business activities isn’t always obvious, especially where grants, contracts, and mixed-use income streams are involved.

In this session, Socrates broke down:

  • How to determine whether income is business or non-business
  • The two stage test now applied by HMRC
  • Examples of how the rules are being applied in practice
  • What the distinction means for VAT recovery and partial exemption

Whether you’re reviewing your organisation’s VAT position or preparing for a challenge from HMRC, this webinar offers clear, practical guidance on a notoriously grey area.

Watch the full recording and download the slides on CTG’s website: Events - Charity Tax Group

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If you have any questions about VAT and non-business activities or would like tailored support for your organisation, we’re here to help.

Fill in the form below and a member of our VAT Consultancy team will get back to you.

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