03 April 2026
EU VAT Reverse Charge Explained for Freelancers
The EU VAT reverse charge mechanism confuses many freelancers, but it is straightforward once you understand when and how it applies.
Reverse charge applies when you are VAT-registered, your client is a B2B VAT-registered business in another EU state, and the service follows general B2B supply rules. You issue the invoice without VAT and write "Reverse charge — Article 196 VAT Directive." Always verify client VAT via VIES and store proof for audits. Your invoices dashboard handles this automatically. More guides on the blog.
Automate EU VAT Compliance
Arbeitly applies reverse charge automatically based on your client's VAT number and country.
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