How to Find VAT Number of a Business?

If you’re running a VAT-registered business in the UK like I do, there will inevitably come a time when you need to verify the VAT registration number of another business — be it a supplier, contractor, or even a potential partner. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to find VAT number of a business, why it’s crucial, and the best tools and resources available to do it accurately.

Without a valid VAT number, reclaiming VAT you’ve paid becomes a bureaucratic nightmare. I’ve seen businesses lose thousands simply because they couldn’t verify or record the correct number in time.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know.

What is a VAT Registration Number?

A VAT registration number is a unique identifier given to businesses when they register for VAT with HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs). In the UK, VAT numbers typically consist of 9 digits prefixed by “GB” (for example, GB123456789).

📌 Official HMRC VAT Registration Guide

For companies across the European Union, VAT number formats differ by country. Here’s a quick glance:

Country	Prefix	Format
UK	GB	GB123456789
Germany	DE	DE123456789
France	FR	FRXX123456789
Italy	IT	IT12345678901

Why is a VAT Number Important?

When I reclaim VAT from HMRC, I must prove that the supplier I purchased from is also VAT registered. If I use an invalid VAT number, HMRC will reject the claim, potentially leading to penalties, audits, or worse — loss of reclaimable funds.

From a legal and financial perspective, how to find VAT number of a business is not just a convenience, it’s a necessity.

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How Do I Get My Own VAT Number?

If you’ve just registered for VAT, you’ll receive a VAT registration certificate from HMRC. It’s sent either by post or digitally via your HMRC business tax account.

To access it:

1. Go to your HMRC Government Gateway Account.
   
2. Navigate to “Business Tax Account.”
   
3. Download your VAT certificate and make a note of the number.
   

Remember to keep it safe — you’ll need this number for all invoices, returns, and communications with HMRC.

How to Find VAT Number of a Business in the UK

Let’s talk about how you can find another business’s VAT number. Whether it’s a supplier, contractor or partner, here are my tried-and-tested methods:

1. Check the Invoice or Receipt

The easiest way? Ask for an invoice. If the business is VAT-registered, they’re legally required to include their VAT number on every invoice or receipt.

Tip: If the invoice has VAT charged but no number listed, that’s a red flag. Contact them immediately to request clarification.

2. Search on the HMRC Website

You can use the HMRC VAT Number Checker via the EU VIES tool, which is still partially supported for UK businesses.

🧾 EU VIES VAT Number Checker

This free tool helps verify if a VAT number is valid and matches the details of the registered business.

3. Check with Companies House

If the business is a limited company, go to Companies House, search for the business by name, and review their filings. Some documents may include VAT registration data.

4. Ask the Business Directly

If all else fails, send an official request via email or letter. Most businesses are happy to provide their VAT number, especially if it ensures smooth financial processing.

How to Find VAT Number of a Business in the EU

When dealing with suppliers or companies within the EU, how to find VAT number of a business involves an extra layer of diligence. The VIES tool mentioned earlier is your best bet.

Make sure you know:

• The correct country code (e.g., FR for France, DE for Germany)
  
• The legal name and address of the company
  

Note: Some countries refer to VAT as something else — for example, IVA in Italy or BTW in the Netherlands — so adjust your search terms accordingly.

Can I Search by Business Name Only?

Yes — to some extent. If you’re trying to find VAT number of a business by its name, the most reliable route is through Companies House or commercial databases like Endole or DueDil (now part of Artesian). However, these services may require a subscription.

How to Verify a VAT Number in the UK

Verifying is just as important as finding.

To confirm a UK VAT number:

1. Use the EU VIES system.
   
2. If not listed, call the HMRC VAT Helpline at 0300 200 3700.
   
3. Request written confirmation if needed for legal protection.
   

Remember, you’re liable if you reclaim VAT using a false or invalid VAT number — even if the supplier gave it to you.

Reclaiming VAT? Be Careful.

Once you’ve got the VAT number, ensure it’s added to your accounting software (like Xero or QuickBooks). Use it in your VAT Return (MTD-compatible) filings.

📌 How to Reclaim VAT – GOV.UK

If the number is invalid or missing, HMRC may reject your claim. That’s why learning how to find VAT number of a business is critical to maintaining compliance and cash flow.

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Final Thoughts

I hope this article has clarified how to find VAT number of a business — whether in the UK or EU. As a business owner and tax specialist, I can assure you that spending a few extra minutes verifying VAT numbers can save you a mountain of financial stress later.

Whether you’re working with a new supplier, contractor, or client, it’s not just smart — it’s good business hygiene to ensure their VAT number is valid and active.

If you have more questions, drop them in the comments or reach out via our contact page. At taxcalculatorsuk.co.uk, we’re committed to helping UK businesses stay tax-smart.

FAQs

Q1: Is it illegal to charge VAT without a VAT number?
Yes. Only VAT-registered businesses can legally charge VAT in the UK.

Q2: Can I claim VAT without a valid VAT number from the supplier?
No. HMRC will reject claims without a valid VAT number.

Q3: Can sole traders have VAT numbers?
Absolutely. Sole traders earning above the VAT threshold (£90,000 as of 2025) must register for VAT.