When to use it
Check a VAT number before invoicing, reclaiming VAT, or onboarding a new customer or supplier.
VAT NUMBER CHECK
VAT checker
Validate a UK or EU VAT number and review the business details returned by the checker.
Your result will appear here
Enter a VAT number above to run the check.
Results depend on the external VAT-checking service. For important transactions, keep appropriate evidence and verify the details against the relevant official source.
What a valid result means
A valid result confirms that the number was returned as registered by the relevant checking service at the time of the check. It is not a guarantee of the business's wider eligibility or conduct.
Why keep evidence
Keeping the result can support your VAT controls and provide a useful audit trail if a transaction is reviewed later.
VAT SUPPORT FROM EXPERLU
More ways we can help with VAT
Clear fixed fees for defined work, ongoing support for recurring needs, and a tailored quote when the requirement is more complex.
Fixed-price services
Straightforward scope. Clear price.
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VAT registrationFixed-scope support to get a UK VAT registration prepared and submitted correctly.
Fixed fee+VAT return supportMonthly VAT returns and bookkeeping handled by a dedicated accountant.
From £99/mo+VAT health checkBespoke review of your VAT position, records and recurring compliance process.
Tailored quoteONGOING SUPPORT
Keep VAT and bookkeeping moving every month
Recurring support for VAT returns, bookkeeping and the records behind them.
From£99/month + VAT
Explore ongoing support BESPOKE VAT SUPPORT
Something less standard?
International VAT, unusual transactions, investigations, historic issues and larger projects can be scoped around your situation.
International VATInvestigationsSpecialist adviceBespoke projects
Get a tailored quote ACCA & ICAEWaccredited experts
Using leading accounting softwareXeroQuickBooksSageFreeAgent
Practical VAT supportfor UK businesses
LEARN MORE ABOUT VAT
Useful VAT guidance, without turning the checker into a textbook
VAT GUIDE
VAT explained for UK businesses
Understand registration, VAT rates, invoices, returns, reclaiming VAT and the records that support your filings.
Read the VAT guideUK VAT rates explained
Understand the standard, reduced and zero rates, and why exempt supplies are different.
How to check a VAT number
What a VAT-number check can confirm and what to do if a number appears invalid.
VAT invoices: what must be included
The information businesses should normally expect to see on a valid VAT invoice.
When do you need to register for VAT?
Learn how compulsory and voluntary VAT registration can arise for UK businesses.
COMMON QUESTIONS
VAT checker questions, answered
Quick guidance on VAT-number checks, invoices and what to do next.
How do I check if a UK VAT number is valid?+
Enter the VAT number into the UK checker and submit it. A successful lookup can return the VAT number and available registration details. You should still make sure the number belongs to the business you expect to deal with and keep appropriate evidence for your records.
Can I check EU VAT numbers?+
Yes. Use the EU VAT checker tab for VAT numbers issued by EU member states. EU validation is normally carried out through the relevant European VAT-validation service, and the information returned can vary by country.
What does an invalid VAT number mean?+
An invalid result can mean the number has been entered incorrectly, is not currently recognised by the checking service, or is not valid for the type of check being performed. Re-check the number and ask the customer or supplier to confirm their details before relying on it.
What information should appear on a VAT invoice?+
A VAT invoice normally needs specific information including a unique invoice number, the supplier's details and VAT registration number, the invoice date, a description of the goods or services, and the VAT amounts and rates that apply. The exact requirements depend on the type of VAT invoice being issued.
Why should I keep a copy of a VAT-number check?+
A saved result can form part of your internal VAT controls and audit trail. It can help demonstrate the checks your business performed if the VAT treatment of a transaction is later questioned.
Can Experlu help if my VAT position is more complex?+
Yes. Straightforward work can be handled through fixed-price services, recurring VAT and bookkeeping can be supported monthly, and more complex VAT matters can be scoped for a tailored quote.
NEED MORE THAN A VAT CHECK?
Get the right level of VAT support
Buy a defined service, move recurring VAT work onto monthly support, or ask for a tailored quote.
Service prices shown are indicative. Confirm scope and pricing before purchasing.