KvK number, branch number, RSIN and VAT ID: which number for what?
Written by Ilias Aarrass5 min read · Published on · Last reviewed on 
In short
On your invoice and website you show your KvK number (8 digits) and your VAT ID (NL + 9 digits + B + 2 digits). The branch number (12 digits) and the RSIN are for registers and government, and the VAT tax number is only used with the tax authorities; a sole proprietorship has no RSIN.
- The KvK number has 8 digits and is mandatory on invoices, quotes and your website.
- The branch number has 12 digits and does not have to be on your invoice.
- A sole proprietorship gets no RSIN; a BV, foundation or partnership does.
- A sole proprietorship's VAT tax number contains your BSN and never belongs on an invoice.
As soon as you register your business with the KvK, the numbers start arriving: a KvK number, a branch number, sometimes an RSIN, and from the tax authorities a VAT ID and a VAT tax number. They look alike and forms mix them up, yet each has its own purpose. Put the wrong number on an invoice and, in the worst case, you share your citizen service number (BSN) with the whole world. This article explains for each number what it looks like, who gets it, what you use it for and which numbers must appear on your invoice and website. With an overview table to keep.
The KvK number and the branch number
The KvK number consists of 8 digits and belongs to your business or legal entity. It does not change when you move or adjust your trade name. You are required to state it on invoices, quotes, your website and business letters. It is also useful in your email signature, because customers and suppliers use it to check that you really exist.
The branch number (vestigingsnummer) has 12 digits and belongs to a physical place where you work, such as a shop, workshop or office. If you have one location, that is your main branch. The number does not resemble your KvK number and you do not have to put it on invoices or your website. You will find it on your KvK extract and some forms or portals ask for it, especially when a business has several locations.
The RSIN: only for legal entities and partnerships
RSIN stands for Legal Entities and Partnerships Information Number. It is a 9-digit number that government bodies, such as the tax authorities, use to exchange data about a BV, foundation, association or partnership. A BV receives it automatically on registration, alongside the KvK number.
A sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak) has no RSIN. There, your citizen service number is the tax number, because you as a person are the entrepreneur. If a form asks for an RSIN and you run a sole proprietorship, leave the field empty or choose the option for sole proprietorships. Do not simply enter your BSN there. Unsure about your legal form? Read sole proprietorship or BV.
VAT ID and VAT tax number: two VAT numbers
The tax authorities give you two VAT numbers. The VAT identification number (btw-id) looks like NL + 9 digits + B + 2 digits, for example NL000099998B57. This is the outward-facing number: on your invoices, your website and towards customers and suppliers. For a sole proprietorship the VAT ID has had nothing to do with your BSN since 2020, precisely so that you can share it safely.
You use the VAT tax number (omzetbelastingnummer) only in contact with the tax authorities: in letters, on the phone and for your VAT return. For a sole proprietorship it is your BSN + B + 2 digits, for a BV the RSIN + B + 2 digits. So never put a sole proprietorship's VAT tax number on an invoice. How to request the numbers is explained in applying for a VAT number.
All numbers at a glance
If you have staff, one more number is added: the payroll tax number, built from your BSN or RSIN with an L and two digits. You only use it for the payroll tax return. The complete overview:
| Number | Format | Where you use it |
|---|---|---|
| KvK number | 8 digits | Mandatory on invoice, quote, website and letterhead |
| Branch number | 12 digits | Extract, some forms; not required on invoices |
| RSIN | 9 digits | Data exchange with government; not for a sole proprietorship |
| VAT ID | NL + 9 digits + B + 2 digits | Mandatory on invoices, also on your website |
| VAT tax number | BSN or RSIN + B + 2 digits | Only contact with the tax authorities |
| Payroll tax number | BSN or RSIN + L + 2 digits | Payroll tax return |
What goes where?
For day-to-day practice a few rules of thumb are enough. That way a customer will not send your invoice back and you will not share more than necessary.
- On your invoice: KvK number and VAT ID. With reverse-charged VAT, also your customer's VAT ID.
- On your website: KvK number and VAT ID, see website obligations.
- To the tax authorities: your VAT tax number or payroll tax number.
- In doubt about an EU customer's VAT ID? Check it in the VIES database.
Frequently asked questions
Is the VAT number the same as the KvK number?
No. The KvK number (8 digits) comes from the Chamber of Commerce, the VAT ID (NL + 9 digits + B + 2 digits) from the tax authorities. Both appear on your invoice.
Where do I find my RSIN?
On the extract of your BV or foundation and free of charge in Mijn KVK. If you have a sole proprietorship, you have no RSIN.
Does the branch number have to be on my invoice?
No. Your KvK number is mandatory on your invoice, the branch number is not. You may include it if a customer asks for it.
I have lost my VAT ID. How do I find it?
It is in the letter you received from the tax authorities after registering, and in Mijn Belastingdienst Zakelijk. You can also call the BelastingTelefoon.
Sources
- Branch numberKVK · kvk.nl
- RSIN numberKVK · kvk.nl
- VAT identification number and VAT tax numberBusiness.gov.nl · business.gov.nl
Sources checked on
This article provides general information based on the rules known for 2026 and does not replace personal tax advice. For your specific situation, we're happy to take a look with you.
