You need your VAT number to send invoices. It also shows that you're a registered business.
What does this mean in practice?
The VAT identification number starts with NL, followed by nine digits, the letter B and two digits. You receive it from the Dutch Tax Administration (Belastingdienst) after registering as a business with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK). It appears on your invoices, quotes and often on your website too.
Why does this matter for your business?
Without a VAT number, you can't send a correct invoice that includes VAT. A visible VAT number shows that you're a real, registered business. That builds trust with new customers.
Examples and best practices
- Put your VAT number on every invoice.
- Ask business customers in other EU countries for their VAT number and check it via VIES.
- Use your VAT identification number externally, not your sales tax number.
- Show your VAT number and Chamber of Commerce (KvK) number on your website, for example in the footer.
How we do it at Ikoon
On an Ikoon website, we neatly place your company details, such as your Chamber of Commerce (KvK) number and VAT number, in the footer and the privacy statement. With structured data, which comes as standard with Ikoon, Google also gets a better understanding of who you are. That strengthens your credibility with visitors.