My VAT number shows as not valid

If you've added your VAT number in the app and it's showing as "not valid," here's what that means, why it happens, and how to fix it.

How we validate your VAT number

When you enter your VAT number in the app, we check it against VIES (VAT Information Exchange System) — the official EU database used to confirm that a VAT number is active and registered. This is the same system used across the EU, so it's not something specific to ChefMaison — if it doesn't validate with us, it won't validate anywhere else either.
If your VAT number comes back valid, your commission rate updates automatically to reflect that.

Common reasons a VAT number doesn't validate

1. Typos or formatting issues The most common reason. Your VAT number needs to include the correct country prefix (e.g., NL, FR, IT) followed by the number exactly as registered — no extra spaces, dashes, or missing digits.
2. The registration is very recent If you've just registered for VAT, it can take a few business days (sometimes longer, depending on your country's tax authority) for it to appear in the EU system. If you registered recently, this might just be a timing issue.
3. The VAT number isn't registered for intra-EU transactions Some VAT numbers are valid domestically but haven't been activated for cross-border (intra-EU) trade. This is a separate registration step in some countries — worth checking with your local tax office if this might apply to you.
4. The number itself is inactive or incorrect Occasionally a VAT number is inactive, has expired, or was entered incorrectly at the source (e.g., a typo when it was issued). Your tax authority or accountant can confirm your correct, active VAT number.

What you can do

1. Double-check the number — compare it carefully against your official VAT registration document, including the country prefix.
2. Re-enter it in the app — go to Profile → VAT/Tax Status and re-submit.
3. If it still doesn't validate, contact your local tax authority to confirm the number is active and registered for intra-EU trade.
4. Still stuck? Reach out to us via the in-app chat. If you have supporting documents (business registration, VAT certificate, etc.), send them over — we can take a look and help figure out what's going on.

A few important notes

• Supporting documents alone don't lower your commission. If your VAT number can't be validated, we may still be able to invoice you under your business name using other documentation — but the reduced commission rate specifically requires a validated VAT number in VIES. These are two separate things.
• We're not tax advisors. We can help troubleshoot the validation process, but for questions about your specific tax situation or registration, please consult your local tax authority or an accountant.
• Once your VAT number validates successfully, your commission rate updates automatically — no need to do anything else.

Updated on: 17/07/2026