Look up VAT number

A VAT number (Value Added Tax) in Belgium is a unique identification number assigned to businesses and self-employed individuals who are registered for VAT purposes. It is used in transactions and communications with the Belgian tax authorities. The VAT number is essential for the calculation of VAT on products and services, and for the VAT declaration.

The VAT number in Belgium has a specific structure: it begins with 'BE', followed by 0 and then 9 digits. For example: BE0123456789. Each company has its own unique VAT number. It is important to note that as of January 1, 2020, all Belgian VAT numbers have automatically become business numbers.

The business number is a unique identification number assigned to every business and every entity in Belgium when they register in the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (KBO). This number is a legal requirement and is used in all official documents and communications with government agencies.

The VAT number was previously assigned to businesses and self-employed individuals who registered for VAT purposes.

However, as of January 1, 2020, all VAT numbers in Belgium have automatically been converted into business numbers. This means that there is no longer a separate VAT number; the VAT number is now the same as the business number, but preceded by 'BE' and followed by a control digit for VAT purposes.

For example, if the business number is 0123.456.789, then the VAT number would be BE0123.456.789. The difference is therefore mainly important for VAT-related transactions and communication with the Belgian tax authorities.

In the Netherlands, all entrepreneurs who are subject to VAT are given a VAT number for communication with the Tax Authorities. This number serves as a registration number so that the Tax Authorities can recognize you, for example during the VAT declaration. It is also referred to as the turnover tax number.

It is important to mention that in the Netherlands there is no possibility to search for a VAT number or VAT-ID based on a company name. You must request this from the company itself. However, VAT-IDs can be checked, especially if you are doing business abroad.

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