What this check can and can’t tell you
Most tax identifiers include check digits: a small calculation over the other digits that catches typos and swapped characters. This tool runs those calculations in your browser for EU and UK VAT numbers, Australian ABNs and Canadian Business Numbers. For US EINs it checks the format and that the first two digits are a prefix the IRS assigns.
A number that passes is well-formed, not necessarily registered. Only the official registers can say whether it was issued, belongs to your customer and is still active, so use the links next to the result.
When you need a customer’s VAT number
- EU reverse charge: for B2B supplies across EU borders, check your customer’s number in VIES and keep a record of the check.
- UK: show your own VAT number on VAT invoices; check suppliers’ numbers with HMRC before reclaiming VAT.
- Australia: tax invoices of A$1,000 or more must show the buyer’s identity or ABN.
- Canada: GST/HST registrants show their 15-character number (BN + RT0001) on invoices; confirm it in the CRA GST/HST Registry.
- US: there is no public EIN register. Ask contractors for a signed Form W-9 before you pay them.