> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://help.companio.co/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# Do I Need a VAT Number to Invoice My Customers?

You do not need a VAT number to invoice your customers, even your European customers. From the moment your company enters the company registry, you can issue invoices, but remember that you’ll need a bank account or another payment method to be paid by them.


# How Do I Know if a Company or Freelancer Has a Valid VAT Number?

You must make sure when dealing with a European company, that they are really registered as VAT operators and have a valid VAT number. Some companies or professionals may lie in order to avoid VAT.

On [the official website](https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/vies/#/vat-validati) of the EU Commission (VIES), you can check if a VAT number is valid. If not, you should check with the company and ask them to give you their valid VAT number.