How Do I Find My VAT Number?

If you’re setting up a business in the UK, you’ll need to register for Value Added Tax (VAT). Once you’ve registered, you’ll be assigned a VAT number which you’ll need to include on all invoices and other financial documents. In this article, we’ll look at how to find your VAT number if you’ve already registered.

A Value Added Tax (VAT) number is a unique identifier assigned by HMRC to businesses that are registered for VAT in the United Kingdom. It is used to identify your business for all VAT-related transactions. When your business charges VAT on goods or services, this number shows that you are authorized to collect this tax on behalf of the government. Having a VAT number also means that your business can reclaim the VAT you pay on goods and services from other businesses. This can help reduce your overall tax bill.

It is a 9-digit number that distinguishes your business from others and is essential for dealing with VAT-related transactions. HMRC uses this VAT registration number to track and monitor payments made by businesses.

Standard Format of a UK VAT Number

The format of a UK VAT number is standardized. It typically consists of two letters followed by nine digits. Here's a breakdown of what a typical VAT number looks like:

• Two Letters: The VAT number starts with "GB," which indicates that the business is registered in the United Kingdom.
• Nine Digits: After the letters, there are nine numbers. These numbers are unique to your business.

For example, a UK VAT number might look like this: GB123456789.

1. To File VAT Returns

Your VAT number is crucial when filing VAT returns with HMRC. These returns show how much VAT your business has collected from customers and how much you have paid to other businesses. By using your VAT number, HMRC can track your payments and ensure that you are paying the correct amount of tax.

2. Legal Requirements for Invoices

The law requires your VAT number to be displayed on all invoices you issue to customers. This shows that you are legally collecting VAT on behalf of the government. Including your VAT number on invoices helps build trust with your customers and ensures transparency in your business transactions. It also helps HMRC verify that your business is compliant with VAT regulations.

3. To Use in Business Transactions and Communications

Your VAT number is often required in business transactions and communications. For example, when you deal with suppliers, they may ask for your VAT number to verify your business status. Including your VAT number on contracts, purchase orders, and other business documents ensures that all parties have the necessary information for tax purposes. This makes your business dealings more professional and organized.

4. To Claim VAT Refunds and Credits

If your business pays VAT on goods and services from other businesses, you can often reclaim this VAT from HMRC. To do this, you need to provide your VAT number on the relevant forms and documents. This process, known as VAT reclaim, helps reduce your overall tax burden.

1. Use the HMRC Online VAT Number Checker

HMRC provides an online tool to check if a UK VAT number is valid.  

2. Call the HMRC VAT helpline

HMRC has a complete database of VAT-registered businesses, so if you’re in any doubt about a registration number, you should call their VAT helpline on 0300 200 3700.

If you need to find a company's VAT number, you have a few options:

1. Check the Company's Invoices or Receipts: VAT-registered businesses are required to display their VAT number on invoices and receipts.
2. Visit the Company's Website: Many businesses list their VAT number on their website, usually in the footer or on the 'Contact Us' page.
3. Government’s Check VAT Number Service: You can use the government’s Check a UK VAT Number service to search for a company's VAT number. 
4. Contact the Company Directly: If any of the above methods don’t work, reach out to the company directly and ask for the VAT number.

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There are 4 ways you can find your Company's VAT Registration Number:

1. Check VAT registration certificate

2. Check VAT returns

3. Contact HMRC

4. Check Your Accounting Software

To find your company's VAT number, you can check below:

1. Check Your VAT Registration Certificate:

The VAT registration certificate issued by HMRC contains your VAT number. Keep this certificate in a safe and easily accessible place.

2. Check Your VAT Returns:

‍If you don’t have VAT registration certification on hand or are unable to find one, check your VAT returns. The VAT number is included in the VAT return form you submit to HMRC. 

3. Contact HMRC:

‍If you're unable to locate your VAT number, you can contact HMRC for assistance. You can call the VAT helpline on 1800 or 0300 200 3700 or send an email to the VAT general inquiries mailbox at vatgeneralenquiries@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk. You can also reach out to HMRC online through the live chat.

4. Check Your Accounting Software:

‍If you use online accounting software to track your financial transactions, your VAT number can be included in the software settings.

1. What is VAT Registration Threshold 2024?

The VAT registration threshold for the tax year 2024/25 is £90,000.

2. How Many Digits Is a Company VAT Number?

A UK VAT number consists of 9 digits, usually starting with the country code (e.g., "GB") followed by the 9 digits unique to your business.

3. Is the Company Number and VAT Number the Same?

No, the company number and VAT number are not the same. The company number is a separate registration assigned by Companies House, while the VAT number is issued by HMRC for VAT-related transactions. Each serves a distinct purpose in business operations.