How Do I Check My VAT Number?

If you’re running a business or working with VAT-registered companies, it’s essential to know and verify your VAT number. A VAT number is a unique identifier assigned by your country’s tax authority, used for collecting and remitting Value Added Tax (VAT).

This page explains where to find your VAT number, how to verify it, and how to check other companies’ VAT status.

1. What Is a VAT Number?

A VAT number (Value Added Tax Identification Number) is issued by the government once your business is registered for VAT. It appears on invoices, tax returns, and customs documents.

2. How to Find Your Own VAT Number

• VAT Certificate: Issued upon registration, this is your official confirmation.
• Tax Authority Portal: Log in to your account (e.g., HMRC, FIRS, CRA) to view your VAT number.
• Invoices: Your VAT number is usually displayed on any invoice your business sends out.
• Official Documents: Any correspondence from your tax agency should include it.

3. How to Verify a VAT Number

If you want to confirm that a VAT number is valid — yours or someone else’s — you can use online tools. This is especially useful for cross-border transactions within the EU or to avoid fraud.

✅ For EU Businesses

Use the EU VIES VAT Number Validation Tool to check any EU VAT number. It’s free and official.

✅ For Other Countries

• UK (HMRC): Use the HMRC VAT checker in your Government Gateway account.
• India (GSTIN): Verify on the GST portal.
• South Africa (SARS): Use the SARS eFiling system.
• Ghana: Contact GRA or check GRA’s online tools if available.

4. What If I Can’t Find My VAT Number?

If you’ve registered for VAT but lost or misplaced your certificate:

• Log in to your country’s online tax portal to view or re-download it.
• Contact the tax authority directly with your business details.
• Check your email inbox for the original confirmation after registering.

5. Can I Check If Another Company Is VAT Registered?

Yes. You can verify suppliers, partners, or clients to ensure their VAT legitimacy. For EU businesses, use the VIES validation system. For non-EU countries, visit the respective tax authority’s website or request proof directly from the business.

6. Tips for Storing Your VAT Number

• Keep a digital copy of your VAT certificate
• Include your VAT number on all business documents
• Store your tax login credentials securely
• Regularly back up your business financial records

7. Why Is It Important to Know and Verify Your VAT Number?

• Legal requirement for registered businesses
• Prevents fraud or fines during audits
• Required to issue valid VAT invoices
• Helps customers reclaim VAT in B2B transactions

FAQs

Can I operate without a VAT number?

Yes, if your turnover is below your country’s threshold. But you cannot charge or reclaim VAT.

Is my TIN the same as my VAT number?

Not always. In some countries like Nigeria, the TIN is used for VAT too. But in others, they are separate.

Do all invoices need a VAT number?

Only if you’re VAT registered. If not registered, you must not charge or display VAT.

Conclusion

Your VAT number is essential for legal compliance, accurate invoicing, and building trust in business. Whether you’re checking your own number or verifying others, knowing where and how to find a VAT number can save you from regulatory issues and errors.

Still need to calculate VAT? Use our free VAT Calculator to break down your prices and tax amounts in seconds.