GB VAT checker
Every B2B invoice from a UK supplier should carry a GB VAT number — but a number on a PDF does not prove it is still active. A GB VAT checker queries HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) live and confirms whether the registration is valid right now, plus the registered business name and address on file. Free, online, and done in seconds.
What is a GB VAT number?
A GB VAT number identifies a business registered for VAT with HMRC. Most use the prefix GB followed by nine digits — for example GB116300129. Some VAT groups use 12 digits. The number appears on tax invoices, contracts, and official correspondence. If the format looks wrong or the GB prefix is missing, investigate before you pay. Full format rules are in our guide to UK VAT numbers.
How a GB VAT checker works
Since Brexit, GB numbers are validated through HMRC — not the EU VIES system. A trusted GB VAT checker online sends your query to HMRC's registry and returns an instant valid or invalid status. When valid, you also receive the company name and address HMRC holds — what you need to match a supplier to their invoice before approving payment.
Use our free GB VAT checker on Check VAT Number for official HMRC results with no account required. For a step-by-step walkthrough, read how to verify a UK VAT number online and how VAT validation works.
Why use a GB VAT checker before paying?
Invoice fraud often involves inactive or misappropriated VAT numbers. EU and UK tax rules expect reasonable due diligence before zero-rating B2B supplies or reclaiming input VAT. A live check GB VAT number lookup creates a dated record that you consulted official HMRC data — not just trusted the invoice. Learn more in why you should verify VAT numbers and how to spot VAT invoice fraud.
GB VAT checker vs EU VIES validation
GB numbers require HMRC; EU member state numbers require VIES. If you trade with both UK and European partners, you need both workflows — a GB VAT number validation for domestic and GB suppliers, and VIES for IE, DE, FR, and other EU prefixes. See VIES vs HMRC: what's the difference? and VIES VAT checker UK for EU checks from Britain.
What a GB VAT lookup returns
A successful HMRC GB VAT check confirms the registration is currently active. Compare the returned name and address to your supplier — if they do not match, contact the business before releasing funds. An invalid result means you should pause payment. Follow what to do if a VAT number is invalid. Related UK guides: check VAT number in UK, how can I verify a VAT number online in the UK?, and is there a free service to validate a VAT number for UK businesses?
Run a free GB VAT check now
Whether you need a one-off verify GB VAT number lookup or a standard accounts payable workflow, a free GB VAT checker takes seconds. Visit the Check VAT Number homepage, enter the full GB number, and get instant HMRC results — or browse more guides on our blog and FAQ.