Finance & Investments

How to Check if a Business is VAT Registered and Why It Matters

Learn how to check if a business is VAT registered quickly, using simple methods like invoices, online checkers, and direct questions.

By Mateo Green
5 Min Read
How to Check if a Business is VAT Registered

You’re about to pay for something through a business, and a thought pops up. Is this company properly VAT registered? It’s not always obvious, but it’s something you’ll want to be sure about. Whether you’re buying goods or services, knowing if VAT is being handled correctly can save you some serious trouble later.

Thankfully, checking a business’s VAT registration isn’t difficult. You don’t need fancy tools or to sit through long processes. Just a few quick steps and you’ll have your answer.

Ask the Business Directly

One of the simplest ways to check is just to ask. A legitimate VAT-registered business should have no issue providing their VAT number when you request it. In fact, if they’re issuing invoices with VAT added, they’re legally required to display the number.

If the person you’re dealing with hesitates, changes the subject, or doesn’t give you a clear answer, it’s worth being a bit cautious. Most businesses know their VAT number like they know their postcode.

Look for it on Their Invoice

By law, any VAT-registered business has to show their VAT registration number on invoices. This number usually sits near the bottom or alongside their business details. You’ll see something like: “VAT Reg No: 123 4567 89”.

If they’re charging VAT but there’s no number listed, that’s not right. It could be a mistake, but it might also point to bigger issues. In cases like that, a quick follow-up is a smart move.

Use HMRC’s VAT Number Checker

There’s a free VAT number checker tool offered by HMRC. It’s easy to use and doesn’t ask for any private information. All you need is the VAT number the business has given you.

Type it into the checker, and it will tell you if the number is valid. It’ll even show you the name and address linked to that number. If the details match the business you’re dealing with, that’s a good sign.

It takes under a minute and could save you a lot of hassle if something seems off later.

VIES for European Businesses

If you’re dealing with a business that has connections in Europe, you might need to use the VIES VAT number checker instead. It’s also free and works pretty much the same way. It’s especially handy if you’re working with companies who ship across borders.

Just a heads-up: sometimes VIES servers have slow moments, but usually, you get results straight away.

Spotting VAT Numbers in Other Places

Besides invoices, many businesses will put their VAT number on their website. Scroll down to the footer, or check the “About Us” or “Terms and Conditions” pages. Some also include it in order confirmation emails or within customer account sections.

If you’re being charged VAT but can’t find a VAT number anywhere public, that’s worth questioning.

Why Bother Checking?

It’s fair to wonder why it matters at all. If you’re a business yourself, you can only claim back VAT if the business charging it is properly registered. If you pay VAT to someone who shouldn’t be charging it, that money is lost to you.

Even if you’re not running a business, making sure you’re buying from a properly registered company means you’re dealing with someone who’s sticking to the rules. And honestly, that’s reassuring.

What to Do If You Can’t Confirm It

Suppose you’ve asked for the VAT number, checked the invoice, searched online, and still can’t confirm anything. What’s next?

One option is to report your concerns to HMRC. You’re not starting a court case by doing this. They’ll handle it quietly. You’re simply letting them know there might be an issue.

Or you might just choose to walk away. Sometimes it’s easier to take your money elsewhere than risk dealing with a business that’s not above board.

A Few Things You Might Run Into

  • Fake VAT Numbers: Some businesses try their luck by making up a VAT number. Checking through HMRC or VIES will catch them out straight away.
  • Expired VAT Registration: Businesses sometimes cancel their VAT registration but forget to update their paperwork. A quick online check will show if the number is still active.
  • VAT Numbers From Overseas: These can look different to UK VAT numbers. Always double-check if you’re unsure, especially if it’s a company based outside the UK.

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