The VAT rebate applies to goods (not services) carried home by non-business travelers. Americans can prove exportation from the E.U. by getting their VAT rebate check stamped during customs back into the U.S.
Merchants supply customers with a VAT refund check at the time of payment. The check will include the necessary information for the refund, including the name of the rebate provider.
Merchants can decide which refund provider to use, and shoppers may end up with more than one rebate service office. Global Refund and Premier Tax Free are the two largest rebate providers, and may charge a small processing fee.
Once completed and stamped by customs, VAT checks are sent back to corresponding rebate providers. It is up to consumers to do the paperwork to receive the VAT rebate, however a small percentage of shops may offer this service.
