How to locate a business's VAT identification number

Each VAT-registered supplier to your business will have a unique registration number. If your business is also registered for VAT, you will need your own supplier's VAT number in order to reclaim any VAT paid to your suppliers.

This handy guide will explain what a VAT registration number is, why it is necessary, and how to obtain one.

What is the meaning of a VAT registration number?

A VAT number is a unique identifier assigned by HMRC to businesses upon registration for VAT. VAT numbers in the United Kingdom are nine digits long and always begin with the prefix 'GB'.

If you are dealing with a supplier located outside of the EU, the supplier's VAT number will be in a different format, with its own unique country code. On its website, HMRC includes a list of ID formats used by European Union member states.

Why is this significant?

If you submit a VAT claim without obtaining a valid VAT number from your supplier, HMRC may reject your claim. If this occurs, you may find yourself footing the bill or dealing with a significant amount of administrative work to rectify the situation! In this situation, you can get the services of cheap accountants in London to get you registered for VAT.

Where am I going to find it?

When you're looking for another business's VAT number, your first port of call should be any invoices it has provided you with. If the business is registered for VAT, their unique VAT identification number should appear on all of their invoices.

If you pay VAT to a supplier but their invoice does not include a registration number, you should immediately contact them – you will need a valid VAT invoice from them in order to reclaim any VAT they have charged you.

Learn more about correcting VAT errors on a return already submitted

Validation of a VAT number

There are several ways to verify the validity of a VAT registration number:

Contacting HMRC's VAT helpline

HMRC maintains a comprehensive database of VAT-registered businesses; if you have any doubts about a registration number, contact their VAT helpline at 0300 200 3700.


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