VIES stands for VAT Information Exchange System. This system helps you check a VAT number. It allows you to quickly and easily check whether a VAT number is valid. This is particularly useful for companies trading internationally within the European Union. With VIES you prevent fraud and make sure you do business with legitimate companies. Using VIES is simple. You enter the VAT number and the system checks its validity for you.
Origins
The European Union established VIES in 1993. Its aim was to reduce VAT fraud and remove trade barriers within the EU. Before the introduction of VIES, it took a lot of time and effort to check VAT numbers. Businesses often had to contact tax authorities in other countries. This caused delays and additional administrative burdens. With the advent of VIES, this process was greatly simplified. The system has since contributed to a fairer and more transparent internal market in Europe.
Laws and regulations
There are extensive laws and regulations regarding VIES and VAT numbers in the European Union. The EU directive 2006/112/EC is the basis for the current VAT rules. According to this directive, businesses supplying goods and services within the EU must have a valid VAT number. In addition, the directive requires businesses to regularly check their VAT number through VIES. National tax administrations in EU member states enforce these rules. They work together to ensure that VAT numbers in VIES are up-to-date and correct.
Accounting packages and VAT Number Verification through VIES
Accounting packages today offer various functionalities to manage your records efficiently and accurately. One such feature is VAT number verification via VIES. This built-in option allows you to quickly and easily verify the validity of a VAT number. This is essential for companies doing business within the European Union, as it helps prevent VAT fraud and ensure correct VAT returns.
Automatic validation of VAT numbers
Many modern accounting packages seamlessly integrate VIES checks into their system. When you create a new customer or supplier profile, the package automatically performs a VIES check on the entered VAT number. This saves you time and ensures that you immediately know whether the VAT number is valid. This automatic validation prevents errors and helps you comply with European VAT regulations.
Reports and alerts
Many accounting packages also offer extensive reporting capabilities. They generate reports on all VAT numbers checked and indicate which numbers are not valid. This makes it easy to detect suspicious numbers and take action. Some packages also send automatic alerts if a VAT number is no longer valid. This proactive approach helps you keep your records up-to-date at all times.
Accounting packages that link with TriFact365
Many of the accounting packages that can integrate with TriFact365 include the ability to check VAT numbers via VIES. Below is an overview of exactly what is possible for each accounting package.
| AFAS | AFAS offers a comprehensive VIES check function. The system automatically checks the validity of VAT numbers within the European Union, helping to ensure the accuracy of your VAT records. |
| Exact Online | Exact Online has capabilities for an integrated VIES check. This allows users to easily validate VAT numbers and check validity within their accounting system. |
| iMUIS Online / King Finance | iMUIS Online, also known as King Finance, supports VIES checks. The package automatically checks VAT numbers and ensures you comply with European VAT regulations. |
| King ERP | It is currently unknown to us whether King ERP has a built-in VIES check. |
| King Anywhere | It is currently unknown to us whether King Anywhere has a built-in VIES check. |
| SnelStart | SnelStart has a built-in VIES check function. It allows users to easily validate VAT numbers and check their validity within their accounting system. |
| Twinfield | It is currently unknown to us whether Twinfield has a built-in VIES check. |
| Accounting Convenience / Software Convenience | It is currently unknown to us whether Accounting Convenience / Software Convenience has a built-in VIES check. |
| Unit4 Multivers Online | It is currently unknown to us whether Accounting Convenience / Software Convenience has a built-in VIES check. |
| AccountView | It is currently unknown to us whether AccountView has a built-in VIES check. |
| Visma eAccounting | Visma eAccounting has a built-in VIES check. The system automatically checks the validity of VAT numbers, which helps comply with European regulations and prevent VAT errors. |
Ease of use and efficiency
Using accounting packages with VIES integration makes managing your VAT records easier and more efficient. You no longer have to manually check VAT numbers on the VIES website. Everything is handled within one system, saving you time and effort. Moreover, these packages ensure that you comply with European regulations, which is essential for companies operating internationally.
Alternatives to VIES
There are some alternatives to VIES, such as commercial VAT verification services. These services often offer additional features, such as extensive business information and automatic checks. A popular alternative is VATify.eu. This platform not only verifies VAT numbers, but also offers integrations with accounting software. The strengths of these alternatives lie in their extra functionalities and ease of use. For example, they can automatically track your VAT records and alert you to suspicious activity.
Further Investigations
You can explore the VIES database further by using various sources and tools. The official website of the European Commission provides detailed information and guides. You will also find an FAQ section with frequently asked questions and answers. In addition, you can use forums and communities where entrepreneurs share their experiences. Finally, various training courses and webinars are available to guide you in using VIES. These resources will help you get the most out of the system and keep your VAT records in order.
