Do these tools store my searches?

HMRC and VIES don't store your searches. Third-party tools may store them to provide an audit trail, but you should check each tool's privacy policy.

Is the HMRC VAT checker free?

Yes, HMRC's online service is free for single lookups.

Can I check a UK VAT number with VIES?

No, VIES only covers EU member states. Use HMRC's service for UK numbers.

What is a consultation number?

It's a unique reference HMRC gives for each VAT check, useful for your records.

Can I check multiple VAT numbers at once?

Yes, with third-party tools like TaxCheckIt that offer bulk CSV upload and export.

Free UK VAT number checkers compared: HMRC, VIES and tools

For UK VAT numbers, use HMRC's free Check a UK VAT number service or a tool built on the same API. For EU numbers, use VIES. Third-party tools add bulk checks, CSV export, and audit logs. All are free for single lookups.

HMRC's own service

HMRC provides a free online service to check a UK VAT number. You enter the number and it returns the registered name and address, plus a consultation number for that search. This is the authoritative source for UK numbers. You can also use the HMRC API if you want to build checks into your own systems.

VIES for EU numbers

For VAT numbers from EU member states, use the VIES (VAT Information Exchange System) database. It confirms whether a number is valid and shows the name and address on record. VIES is free and run by the European Commission. Note that it covers EU countries only, not UK numbers.

API-based tools like TaxCheckIt

Tools like TaxCheckIt use the same HMRC and VIES data but add convenience. Instead of visiting different sites, you check both UK and EU numbers from one place. You get the same official details, plus a clear record of each check. These tools are free for single lookups and don't require you to handle API technicalities.

Bulk checking and audit trails

If you need to verify many numbers at once, third-party tools let you upload a list and run bulk checks. You can download results as a bulk CSV file. They also keep an audit trail of every search, which helps you produce audit evidence for input VAT claims. HMRC's own service doesn't offer these features.

Which to use when

For a quick, one-off UK check, use HMRC's service. For EU numbers, use VIES. If you regularly verify suppliers or need to keep records, use an API-based tool like TaxCheckIt's VAT checker. For more detail on the process, see our guide to checking a VAT number. Bulk features are available on paid plans.