For users in countries where tax is included in the price, we now have an option to set the system to include VAT. Taxes are still calculated but are not shown to the guest. To see the tax information, a template can be created using the tax merge codes, or export the reservation data to an Excel file.
To enable this, change the setting in the Settings tab, Preferences:
Once changed, the system will no longer show taxes in the {{resdetails}} codes, or in the Reservation Summary. In the Reservation Summary, taxes can still be shown by clicking Taxes, such as is shown here:
VAT-inclusive pricing eliminates surprises for guests. From a marketing standpoint, displaying a single, all-inclusive rate increases trust—no unexpected VAT added during checkout.
This approach aligns with consumer expectations in many countries, making it easier to attract bookings.
Although VAT isn’t displayed, it’s still accurately calculated and embedded within rates.
Administrators can extract tax details via export or merge code templates—preserving full tax compliance with local regulations.
This dual functionality balances guest-facing simplicity with behind-the-scenes financial rigor.
The system supports splitting VAT across different rates—e.g., combining a 25% component with an 8% component for a single total.
This flexibility accommodates nuanced tax scenarios like tourism levies or local service surcharges, ensuring accurate compliance.
By displaying a single, VAT-inclusive rate, businesses offer a more straightforward booking journey.
Customers can proceed confidently, knowing the price they see is exactly what they pay—no confusion or sticker shock at checkout.
Enabling the feature is quick and efficient: toggle in Settings → Preferences.
This shift eliminates the need to display taxes in reservation summaries or confirmation pages—streamlining management while retaining tax integrity.
Example of what {{resdetails_ledger}} looks like without the tax information:
Setting up taxes and rates remains the same, except that the rates should now include the tax. We also added a new enhancement to the split tax rules. It is now possible to select whether Part 1 of the split tax should be a straight money amount, or a percentage of the price (such as tax 50% of the total price at 25% and the remaining amount at 8%). Example:
If you are interested in using this feature, and want to help us refine it, feel free to send suggestions. Stat your free trial now..
Founded in 2007, ReservationKey was created to offer a simple, yet powerful and affordable solution for managing reservations and displaying availability online. Our goal is to deliver top-quality software that fulfills our users' needs - simple, efficient, and budget-friendly.
