So, I finally got around to trying the VAT refund thing at Selfridges, and let me tell you, it was an adventure. I’d heard bits and pieces, but doing it yourself is always a different story.
Shopping and Getting the Paperwork
First off, I went shopping. Standard stuff, picked up a few bits I’d been eyeing. The important part started at the till. I made sure to tell the sales assistant, “Hey, I need to do the VAT refund for this.” Some look at you like you’ve grown a second head, others are super chill about it. This time, the person was okay, just pointed me towards their dedicated tax-free lounge or whatever they call it. I think it was on one of the upper floors, had to hunt for it a bit.
Once I found the place, there was a bit of a queue. Not horrendous, but you know, you just want to get it sorted. I handed over my receipts and my passport. They then started tapping away on their computer. They staple all your receipts to this one big form. Make sure you have all your receipts ready! I almost forgot one from a different counter, that would have been annoying.
They asked me how I wanted the refund – back on my card or cash at the airport. I always go for the card option, seems less hassle later, even if it takes a bit longer.
Filling in the Blanks
The form itself, they fill out most of the store-related details. I just had to double-check my name, passport number, address, and sign it. It’s pretty straightforward, but you do need to be accurate. Don’t just scribble, you know? They give you this envelope with it, and tell you to get it stamped by customs at the airport before you leave the UK.
The Airport Ordeal
Right, fast forward to Heathrow. This is where the fun usually begins. I made sure to get to the airport extra early. Seriously, add at least an hour for this VAT stuff. First, I had to find the customs office. It’s usually signposted, but airports are mazes.
There was, of course, another queue. This one was longer. People with bags and bags of stuff. The customs officer eventually called me up. They wanted to see the goods. Luckily, I had them in my carry-on and easily accessible. I’ve heard stories of people having stuff in checked luggage and it being a whole drama. So, keep your VAT items with you if you can!
The officer glanced at my items, looked at the form, stamped it, and handed it back. No major issues for me this time, thankfully. He wasn’t chatty, just doing his job.
Posting the Form
After getting the stamp, I had to find the special drop-box for these VAT refund forms. Selfridges uses one of the big refund companies, so I looked for their specific box. Popped the form (in the envelope they gave me) into the slot. There’s always that little moment of “Hope this actually gets there!”
The Waiting Game and Getting the Refund
And then, I waited. They tell you it can take several weeks, sometimes a couple of months. I tried not to think about it too much. I just kept an eye on my credit card statements.
About six weeks later, bingo! The refund appeared on my credit card. It wasn’t the full VAT amount, obviously. They take their admin fees, which is fair enough, I guess. But it was a decent chunk back, so I wasn’t complaining too much.
So yeah, that was my Selfridges VAT refund journey. A bit of queuing, a bit of paperwork, but it worked out in the end. Worth doing if you’re making some big purchases, just be prepared for the process!
