VAT Number Checker

Check whether a UK or EU VAT number is correctly formatted. UK numbers are verified against the official HMRC checksum.

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Check a VAT Number
About This Checker
UK VAT numbers

UK VAT numbers use a modulus-97 checksum built into the last two digits of the 9-digit number. This tool applies the official algorithm, so a "valid" result for a UK number is a reliable structural check, not just a format guess. It also recognises the GD (government department) and HA (health authority) formats.

EU VAT numbers

Each EU country has its own VAT number length and character pattern (for example, Irish numbers are 8 or 9 characters and may include a letter). This tool checks the number matches that pattern, but EU countries don't publish their checksum algorithms as openly as the UK, so a pattern match here does not confirm the number is currently registered.

Confirming a registration

To confirm a UK VAT number is live, use HMRC's VAT number checker. To confirm an EU VAT number, use the European Commission's VIES VAT number validation service.

Frequently Asked Questions

For UK VAT numbers, it runs the same modulus-97 checksum algorithm HMRC uses to validate the 9-digit structure, so it can tell you with confidence whether the number is mathematically valid. For EU VAT numbers, it checks that the number matches the correct length and character pattern for that country, but it cannot confirm the number is actually registered - for that you need the official VIES service.

No. A number can pass the format or checksum check and still not belong to a currently VAT-registered business - for example if the registration has since been cancelled. To confirm a UK number is live, use HMRC's online VAT number checker. For EU numbers, use the European Commission's VIES service.

UK VAT numbers are usually 9 digits, sometimes shown with "GB" in front (e.g. GB123456789). Some have a 3-digit branch identifier added (12 digits total). Government departments use the format GD plus 3 digits, and health authorities use HA plus 3 digits.

The most common reasons are a mistyped digit, missing digits, or using a company number or tax reference instead of a VAT number by mistake. Double-check the number on the business's invoice or VAT registration certificate and try again without spaces.
UK VAT Number Formats
  • Standard: 9 digits (e.g. 123456789)
  • With branch: 12 digits (9 + 3 branch code)
  • Government dept: GD + 3 digits (000-499)
  • Health authority: HA + 3 digits (500-999)
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