Question 1

What is a VAT check?

Accepted Answer

A VAT check verifies whether a provided VAT number (VAT identification number) is valid and active via official European databases. This is essential for companies conducting intra-community transactions and wanting to apply the reduced 0% rate.

Question 2

How does European VAT verification work?

Accepted Answer

Otentica connects directly with official European databases to verify the validity of VAT numbers in all EU member states. This provides real-time verification with current information.

Question 3

Why is VAT verification important?

Accepted Answer

VAT verification is crucial for demonstrating due diligence in intra-community trade. When applying the 0% rate for deliveries to an EU customer, you must be able to demonstrate that you verified the VAT number. Otentica's VAT check documents this evidence.

Question 4

Which countries are supported?

Accepted Answer

The VAT check supports all 27 EU member states. For each country, the correct format is checked and verification is performed via official sources. For countries outside the EU, Otentica offers alternative verification options.

Question 5

How quickly do I get the result?

Accepted Answer

The VAT check is performed in real-time. As soon as the VAT number is entered, the result is available within seconds. In exceptional cases, the VIES service may be temporarily unavailable for specific countries.

Question 6

What information do I get with a valid VAT check?

Accepted Answer

With a valid VAT number, you receive confirmation of validity, the company name (if available in the country), the address (if available), and a timestamp of the verification. The available information varies per EU member state.

Question 7

What if a VAT number is invalid?

Accepted Answer

If a VAT number is invalid, this may mean that the number does not exist, has been revoked, or was entered incorrectly. Otentica reports the exact status so you can take action - for example, contacting the business partner for a correct number.

Question 8

Is the VAT check GDPR compliant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the VAT check is fully GDPR compliant. VAT numbers and company details are public information from official registers. The verification data is processed encrypted and you determine the retention periods.

VAT number verification

What is a VAT check?

See how VAT numbers are verified

Validation steps

Why use VAT check?

VAT validation

European verification

Instant verification

Fraud prevention

How does the VAT check work?

Enter VAT number

EU verification

Data validation

Receive report

Frequently asked questions about VAT verification

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