Finding a VAT number by company name is often easier than it first sounds, but it helps to know where to look. A few simple steps can usually point you in the right direction. In this guide, we’ll walk through what a VAT number is, where to find one and how to check that it’s valid.
Before we go any further: it’s always best to check with a qualified professional or official government source. We’re neither! For up-to-date information and advice, be sure to visit HMRC.
What is a VAT number?
A VAT number is a unique number given to a business that is registered for Value Added Tax. It is used on invoices, tax records and other official documents. If a business is VAT registered, this number helps identify it for tax purposes. It also helps track the VAT a business charges on sales and pays on purchases.
UK VAT numbers usually start with “GB” followed by 9 digits.
Who needs a VAT number?
Businesses need a VAT number if they are registered for VAT. In the UK, this usually applies once a business passes the VAT registration threshold, although some choose to register voluntarily. It is common for companies that sell goods or services and want to reclaim VAT on business expenses.
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Why you might need to find a VAT number
You might need a VAT number to check a supplier, update your accounts or make sure an invoice is correct. It can also help you confirm that a business is officially VAT registered. For customers and business owners alike, it is a useful detail to have before making payment or claiming back tax.
Clear contact details on a proper domain name can make this easier to check at a glance.
How to find VAT number by company name
Finding a VAT number by company name usually starts with the business itself. You may be able to spot it on the company website, an invoice, a quotation or other official paperwork. For example, many businesses include their VAT number in the footer of their website or at the top of invoices.
There’s no official public database that lets you reliably search for a VAT number by company name alone, so you’ll usually need to get it directly from the business first. If you still cannot find it, contact the company or use a trusted VAT checker to confirm the number once you have it.
Where to look for a company’s VAT number
The first place to check is the company’s website, especially the footer, contact page or legal pages. You can also look at invoices, quotes, emails and terms and conditions. Many businesses include their VAT number on paperwork because they are required to show it on VAT invoices.
How to check if a VAT number is valid
Once you have a VAT number, you should check that it is valid before relying on it. A valid number should match the business name and details you already have. This helps make sure you are dealing with the right company and not using an incorrect or outdated number.
You can check VAT numbers using tools like the HM Revenue and Customs VAT checker, which confirms if the number is valid and shows the business name and address linked to it.
For EU businesses, you can use the European Commission’s checker, which is mainly for EU VAT numbers and only includes UK numbers for Northern Ireland.
What to do if you still can’t find it
If the VAT number is not easy to find, ask the company directly. You can also check any recent invoices or documents they have sent you. If the number is needed for accounting or compliance, it may be worth speaking to your accountant as well.
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