A VAT number checker confirms whether a UK VAT registration number is valid. Enter the number to check it against HMRC’s records and see the business it belongs to.
[ VAT number checker tool sits here: field for the VAT number, which queries HMRC’s official VAT checking service and returns valid or not valid plus the registered name and address. ] (tool embeds here)
What a UK VAT number looks like
A UK VAT number has nine digits. It often has the letters GB in front of it. On an invoice it may be shown as GB followed by the nine digits, for example GB 123 4567 89.
Why check a VAT number
Checking matters when the amount is large or the supplier is new to you. There are two main reasons:
- To claim back VAT, you need a valid VAT invoice, and that invoice must show a real VAT number. If the number is false, your claim can be refused.
- Some suppliers add VAT to invoices when they are not actually registered. Checking protects you from paying VAT that should never have been charged.
How to check a VAT number
You can check a UK VAT number for free using HMRC’s official service on GOV.UK. It tells you whether the number is valid and shows the name and address it is registered to. For a business in the European Union, the VIES service run by the European Commission does the same job.
Our checker links to the official HMRC service so you are always using up to date records.
What to do if a number is not valid
If a number comes back as not valid, do not reclaim VAT on that invoice yet. Ask the supplier to confirm their correct VAT number, then check again. If they cannot give a valid number, they may not be registered, and you should not pay the VAT they charged.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a VAT number is valid? Enter it into a VAT number checker, which queries HMRC’s official records. The result shows whether the number is valid and the business it belongs to.
What does a UK VAT number look like? It is nine digits, usually with GB in front, for example GB 123 4567 89.
Is the VAT checker free? Yes. Checking a VAT number against HMRC’s official service is free.
Why would a VAT number be invalid? The number may be typed wrong, out of date, or the business may not be VAT registered at all.
Can I check an EU VAT number? Yes. Use the VIES service run by the European Commission for VAT numbers in the European Union.