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Guide

Checking VAT IDs: how the lookup works

The VAT identification number, called UID in Austria and USt-IdNr. in Germany, is on almost every invoice. A typo in it usually only shows up when it becomes a nuisance. A quick check avoids that.

What the VAT ID is

Companies in the EU are given an identification number for VAT purposes. It starts with the country code: in Austria “ATU” followed by eight digits, in Germany “DE” followed by nine. The invoice shows the supplier’s VAT ID. In Austria, invoices above €10,000 gross must also show the recipient’s VAT ID.

Why check it?

• An invalid VAT ID often points to a mistake on the invoice.
• For VAT-exempt supplies to businesses in other EU countries, the customer’s valid VAT ID matters.
• A verified VAT ID lets you identify business partners unambiguously.

The VIES lookup

The European Commission runs MIAS/VIES, a lookup that shows whether a VAT ID from an EU country is valid. Depending on the country, the company’s name and address are returned as well. A formal confirmation, in Austria for instance via FinanzOnline, follows its own rules; if in doubt, ask your accountant.

With belegbuddy it happens along the way

The AI finds the VAT ID on the receipt, often in the email text as well, and recognises the country of origin. belegbuddy checks it via VIES, also looks up Austrian companies in the company register and creates the business partner if you want it to. With the next receipt from the same supplier, the partner is already known, along with the right category.

This guide is not tax or legal advice.