Claiming Emergency Tax

Will the questions ever end for me??? Ok, I was working without a National Insurance Number for around 2 months. So I was on emergency tax. I was told that I would be sent a cheque for the amount I have over paid. Is this true?
Or do I have to apply somewhere to get that tax back?
Also, when you go back to Canada after working in the UK for your 2 year working holiday, I heard that you can claim most of your NIN tax back....I even heard you could claim your VAT back???
Does anyone know about this?
Thanks you guys are great!!

As far as VAT goes, I think what you need to do is fill out tax-free forms when you buy certain things. You'll see shops all over touristy places that advertise "Tax Free for Tourists" - And you make your purchase, fill out a form, and when you're leaving the country there's usually a Tax Free kiosk in the airport where you can claim the tax back. Most times they mail you a cheque.

If you're a resident of the country though, you're techinically not allowed to do this..Might be different for the UK but that's been my experience.

Hello. Regarding getting back emergency tax - they just credited it to my paycheque directly. No cheque was sent.

And I'm not sure, but I think you have to pay tax in either the UK or Canada. So if you try to claim your tax back from the UK, you can bet Revenue Canada will be wanting the tax you would have paid in Canada. Are you still considered a resident in Canada?

YES you have to pay tax in either the UK or Canada. You have to consider whether you are a non-resident or not - it is not an easy process, but the CRA site can provide you with the documentation and info for you.

As well, this will help you decide if you want to pay tax here, or elect to claim you UK income in Canada. But discuss with Inland revenue. Frankly, with the Cdn tax rates and the value of the Cdn dollar to the pound, why would you? Pay it here - I think it is also more ethical. If you are living here, no matter for how long, and you take advantage of the health system etc, then you should support it by paying tax HERE.

Oops one more thing - NO you cannot claim back your VAT after a two year working 'holiday'. You were resident, you pay. As for the NIN, I am not sure, but I highly doubt it.