To not understand this calculation

[TheShellBeach]

I've just asked a delivery company to move a three piece suite.

The quote was £50 + 9.5% VAT.

I accepted the quote and asked how to go about paying.

I've just had an email back saying "Just pay the driver the £65"

AIBU to think that 9.5% of 50 is 4.75? And therefore the amount payable is £54.75?

(Also - is VAT even 9.5%?)

It's this.

He's just emailed me back to say it's £50 plus VAT (which comes to £60) plus the 9.5% fuel surcharge = £65.70.

So I'm getting a bargain.

The figure is right but the explanation isn't, so no wonder you think it doesn't make sense. The fuel surcharge is technically a recharge and is also subject to 20% VAT. The calculation should be £50 plus 9.5% fuel surcharge, ie £54.75, plus VAT at 20% of £54.75. Total is £65.70.