FAQ
Overview · Installation · Configuration · Usage · Developer notes
Does CS-Cart not do this already? CS-Cart has a “Tax exempt” switch per customer. It removes VAT from every order of that customer, also domestic ones, and it never checks a VAT number. This add-on checks the number in VIES and applies the exemption only to the orders that qualify, using the same tax calculation.
Do I need an account for VIES? No. VIES is a free public service of the European Commission. Enter your own VAT number in the settings to receive consultation numbers.
What is a consultation number? A reference VIES returns when you identify yourself with your own VAT number. It proves that you checked the buyer’s number on that date. It is stored with the order and printed on the invoice.
What happens when VIES is down? Depending on the setting, the number is accepted (format and check digit must be right) and the order is flagged for review, or VAT is charged. Re-check flagged orders later on the order page.
Will customers pay the net price when my prices include VAT? Yes. For reverse charge orders the VAT is taken out of the price, for both tax calculation methods, including shipping.
Can I sell to consumers in other EU countries as usual? Yes. Without a VAT number nothing changes: your CS-Cart taxes apply.
Are UK numbers supported? GB numbers get a format check, and a live check with HMRC once you add your HMRC application credentials. Northern Ireland (XI) numbers are checked in VIES and can get the EU reverse charge.
Does it work with B2B Registration & Approval? Yes. When a registered customer has an approved application with a VAT number and leaves the VAT field empty, that number is used. If that add-on marks approved customers as tax exempt, the core exemption applies to all their orders and beats the reverse charge rules; the EU VAT numbers page warns you about it.
I use my own checkout layout and do not see the field. Add the VAT number field to the Customer information block in Design → Layouts → Checkout (block content).
What happens to old orders if I uninstall? Their totals stay as they are. The VAT data of orders (VIES answers, consultation numbers) and the field the add-on created are removed. Disable the add-on instead if you want to keep them.
Is my customers’ data sent anywhere? Only the VAT number (and your own number as requester) goes to VIES or HMRC. No names, addresses or IP addresses are sent.
Is this tax advice? No. The add-on checks numbers and applies the rule described in Usage. Ask your accountant which sales qualify in your situation.
Still stuck?
Section titled “Still stuck?”Work through the troubleshooting guide, then contact support with your CS-Cart version, edition, PHP version and the add-on version (1.0.0).