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A VAT number is a unique identifier issued by HMRC to businesses that are registered to charge Value Added Tax (VAT). It’s used on invoices, tax returns, and when trading goods or services both within the UK and internationally.
In this article, you’ll learn how to find your VAT number, how long it takes to get one, and what the difference is between a VAT number and other tax numbers.
Table of contents:
A VAT number is a unique identifier assigned to VAT-registered businesses by HMRC. It’s used when trading goods or services, especially within the UK and across the EU. A UK VAT number typically starts with GB, followed by 9 digits (e.g., GB123456789).
You must display your VAT number on:
This number confirms that your business is authorised to charge VAT and is compliant with UK tax rules.
If you’ve registered for VAT, your VAT number can be found on:
If you’re unsure whether you’re VAT-registered, you can contact HMRC or check your business documents.
Once you register for VAT with HMRC, it usually takes up to 30 working days to receive your VAT number by post. Delays may occur if HMRC needs more information or if you applied during peak periods.
Yes. You can use the VIES system (VAT Information Exchange System) to check if a VAT number is valid for a UK or EU business. This is useful when verifying suppliers or clients in cross-border trade.
Some business owners confuse the VAT number with the Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) or Company Registration Number (CRN). Here’s the difference:
Only VAT-registered businesses will have a VAT number.
Managing VAT and invoicing can be time-consuming. Payt helps UK businesses automate and streamline their credit management.
With Payt:
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A VAT number is used for VAT-related activities, while a UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference) is for income tax purposes. You only receive a VAT number if you’re VAT-registered.
Yes, if you’re VAT-registered and operate a business website, it’s a legal requirement in the UK to display your VAT number clearly.
Yes, voluntary VAT registration is allowed. This can benefit your business if you deal with other VAT-registered companies and want to reclaim VAT on purchases.
