3 Methods to Find VAT Numbers:
The problem: HMRC does not have an official public search tool to find a VAT number by company name. Here's how to work around it.
If you are trying to check an invoice from a new customer, verify a supplier, or check a competitor, you might hit a common brick wall: The official GOV.UK tool only works if you already have the number and want to check if it's valid.
So, how do you find the number in the first place without calling them up or digging through old paperwork?
The official HMRC VAT Number Validation Service requires you to already know the VAT number - it won't help you discover it.
While there is no "official" database, there are several trusted methods and third-party tools that can help you find a UK VAT number using just a company name.
Since the government doesn't provide a "search by name" function, several third-party websites have stepped in to fill the gap. These sites scrape public data or use algorithms to match company names to VAT numbers.
User-Recommended Tools:
VAT-Lookup.co.uk
This is a widely cited tool that allows you to search for a UK business by name. It aims to provide the VAT number associated with the company entity.
VATNumberFinder.com
Another resource designed to help locate these elusive numbers.
Important Caveat:
• These are unofficial tools
• Data may not always be real-time or 100% accurate
• Once you find a potential number using these sites, always verify it using the official HMRC checker (see Step 3) to ensure it is valid and belongs to the company you think it does
UK law (specifically the Electronic Commerce Regulations) requires VAT-registered companies to display their VAT number on their website.
Footer
Scroll to the very bottom of their homepage. It is often listed in small text next to the Company Registration Number.
Terms & Conditions / Privacy Policy
If it's not in the footer, check the "legal" pages.
Pro Tip: Search the page (Ctrl+F) for "VAT" to find it instantly.
"About Us" Page
Sometimes listed under corporate details.
Once you have found a number using a lookup tool or website, you must check it is accurate.
Official HMRC Validation Process:
Go to the official HMRC VAT Checker
GOV.UK VAT Number Validation Service
Enter the 9-digit number you found
Check the result
HMRC will confirm if the number is valid and, crucially, tell you the registered name and address of the business holding that number
If the name on the HMRC checker matches the company you are researching, you have a confirmed match.
Common questions about finding VAT numbers
Search
Use VAT-Lookup.co.uk or VATNumberFinder.com
Check Website
Footer, T&Cs, or About Us page
Validate
Always verify with official HMRC checker
HMRC has no official "search by company name" tool
Third-party tools like VAT-Lookup.co.uk and VATNumberFinder.com can help
Check company website footer, T&Cs, or About Us page (legally required to display)
Always validate the number with the official HMRC checker
Companies only need VAT registration if turnover exceeds £90,000
Companies House does NOT show VAT numbers
Whether you're approaching the £90,000 threshold and need to register, or need help with VAT returns and compliance, our expert team is here to help.
Expert VAT advice • Registration assistance • Compliance support
Official HMRC VAT Checker
Validate any VAT number
GOV.UK VAT Validation Service
VAT-Lookup.co.uk
Search by company name
Third-party lookup tool
VATNumberFinder.com
Alternative search tool
Third-party lookup tool
Companies House
Find company details (not VAT)
Company number, directors, accounts