WooCommerce · EU VAT
EU VAT validation for WooCommerce checkout.
VAT Sentinel validates EU VAT numbers during checkout, applies reverse charge where appropriate, and keeps a record of each check. Built for the WooCommerce block checkout (the modern default).
Works with WooCommerce 8.9+. Validation and record-keeping only; not tax advice.
EU VAT validation should not stop checkout.
Cross-border B2B VAT depends on correct validation and clear records. When the validation service is unavailable, checkout should still be handled in a controlled way.
VIES can be unavailable
The EU validation service is outside your store’s control. VAT Sentinel is designed to handle that case without simply blocking the customer.
Reverse charge needs validation
A valid cross-border B2B VAT number can change the VAT treatment of an order. The check and the result need to be recorded.
Records matter
If a VAT number is questioned later, it helps to have a timestamped record of the validation attempt.
What VAT Sentinel does
Validate VAT numbers
Checks EU VAT numbers against VIES during checkout.
Apply reverse charge
Valid cross-border B2B orders can be zero-rated automatically.
Keep records
Validation results are stored with the order for review.
How it works
Install the plugin
VAT Sentinel adds a VAT number field to WooCommerce checkout for eligible business buyers.
Validate at checkout
The buyer enters a VAT number. Valid numbers can receive reverse charge; invalid numbers keep VAT.
Review records
Recent checks and VIES status are visible in the WordPress admin area. Records stay with the store.
Everything below is free
VAT validation, reverse charge, VIES-down resilience, and a record of every check. A Pro version is planned for later.
- VIES validation and automatic reverse charge for valid cross-border EU B2B
- Block checkout (the WooCommerce default)
- Keeps selling when VIES is down: accept, flag, manual re-check
- Live per-country VIES status panel
- A record of every check, with the business name and address VIES returns
- Validation and record-keeping only, not tax advice
Replacing an older VAT plugin?
VAT Sentinel works with modern WooCommerce checkout and stores validation records in your WordPress database. If you are replacing another VAT plugin, start by testing checkout, tax totals, and existing store settings before switching live orders.
Get VAT Sentinel
Use VAT Sentinel to validate EU VAT numbers, apply reverse charge where appropriate, and keep a record of every check.