What does the term "taxable person" mean in VAT law?

The term "taxable person" in VAT law refers specifically to an individual or business that is registered for VAT and thus has the obligation to charge VAT on the taxable supplies they make. This definition encompasses those who meet a threshold of taxable turnover set by the tax authorities and subsequently register to collect VAT in compliance with legal requirements.

Being a taxable person entails not only the responsibility to charge VAT but also the right to reclaim VAT paid on business-related purchases, which is a key element of VAT administration. This creates the framework where businesses can function effectively within the VAT system, ensuring compliance while managing their tax liabilities.

The other options do not align with the correct definition: a person who does not charge VAT on their supplies would not be considered a taxable person, as they are not fulfilling VAT obligations. Those who merely pay VAT on purchases are consumers and not classified as taxable persons since they don’t have the capacity to charge VAT. Lastly, businesses that exclusively deal in exempt supplies may not need to register for VAT and therefore wouldn’t meet the criteria of a taxable person, as they are not engaged in taxable transactions.