EU need to be aware of duties on Black Friday

...and always be aware of scammers operating

- BY SARAH MAGLIOCCO

REVENUE is reminding Black Friday and Cyber Monday shoppers to be aware of tax and duty costs when making purchases from countries outside the European Union to be delivered to Ireland.

Ireland's taxation authority is warning shoppers to check the advertised price of goods includes all tax and duty costs before making a purchase.

Additional charges such as VAT and Customs Duty may apply when the goods arrive in Ireland if these costs are not included in the advertised price.

Ms Maureen Dalton, Head of Revenue's South East Frontier Management Branch, said: “We are again reminding consumers that when buying goods online from outside the European Union, including from the United Kingdom (excluding Northern Ireland), additional costs can arise before your goods are delivered. Customs formalities apply, and VAT is chargeable on all goods imported into Ireland, regardless of their value.”

Ms Dalton explained how consumers can avoid unexpected charges when their goods arrive for delivery: “If you plan to take advantage of Black Friday or Cyber Monday offers, always check whether the total price you are paying includes Irish VAT and any Customs Duty that may apply.

“Some online retailers include tax and duty meaning all taxes are included at the time of purchase, and no further Revenue charges arise on delivery.