How to check a UK VAT number?
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You can check a UK VAT number by using HMRC’s online validation service at www.gov.uk/check-uk-vat-number. This tool confirms whether a VAT number is valid and shows the registered business name and address.
MMBA supports businesses with VAT management, VAT returns, and wider VAT services, so verifying supplier VAT details is an important part of accurate compliance.
How the UK VAT checker works?
HMRC’s tool offers three key functions:
Validate a UK VAT registration number — confirms whether the number is active.
View the registered business details — shows the name and address attached to the number.
Download a dated certificate — provides evidence that the check was completed at a specific time.
This certificate is useful when working with new suppliers, as HMRC can question input VAT recovery if a number is invalid. The certificate demonstrates that appropriate checks were carried out.
How to check VAT numbers for EU and Northern Ireland?
VAT numbers issued in EU member states or Northern Ireland can be verified using the European Commission’s VIES system:
https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/vies/#/vat-validation
VIES confirms whether the number is valid and registered in that region.