VAT (value-added tax) and similar sales taxes apply to ebooks in many countries — and the stores handle it, not you directly.
How it works
- Depending on the country and store, tax is either added at checkout on top of your price, or the displayed price is tax-inclusive and the store remits the tax.
- Either way, the store collects and pays the tax to the relevant authority. Your royalty is calculated on the net (pre-tax) amount.
What this means for you
- The price you set is your reference; local readers may see a slightly different final price because of their country's tax.
- Your earnings are based on the net price, so VAT does not come out of your pocket — it is the reader's tax, handled by the store.
Your own taxes are separate
VAT on sales is different from the income tax you owe on your earnings — see does Chiify withhold tax and tax forms explained.
Still need help? Open a ticket from your dashboard or email [email protected] — a real person replies.