Why do you need a VAT number for audio ads in the UK? It stinks of big label bias

[LegPuppy]

I dont understand why this is, what about the little labels who dont do it or the money but need exposure

[IndieArtistsUnited]

Spotify showing a disgraceful attuitude towards independent artists by not allowing them to advertise their music thru the Spotify ad network unlesss they are VAT registered. This stinks of restrictions by major labels.

[dominicjohnson]

I think the most irritating thing here is the fact that you don't even get told about it until the very end of the process. So I just wasted my morning getting all the ASSets together.

The second most irritating thing is, as everyone else has said - I'm an independent artist. Because of Spotify I earn nothing from my music. And then the same company are like "So, you earn £100k from your music right? Yeah, just stick your vat number in there" 

Boooo

[willmo]

Damn right! this is BS! How are we supposed to get exposure? Do you have any idea how hard it is to get a VAT number in Germany? For ONE record im releasing. This is SO much paperwork to do. So i can post an ad. Great.

[TikkiMikk]

Here we are in 2024, and Spotify still does not care for small artists. The VAT problem is still not working. Also, what do you do with bands from Eastern Europe or other small parts of the world? I can't find my country on that list.

I guess we are good just to pay the distribution fee on DistroKid, and that's all...

Thanks for caring and helping small musicians.

[BLessJ]

I really do not know why they locked 🔏 out independent artists. It’s so frustrating to see that you can’t get into major editorial playlist and you can’t run ads. Ahhh Spotify this frustrating 🥲

[GWM20]

Spotify, this is quite cynical of you to not allow independent artist to make ads.

you are not required to register for VAT in the UK if you earn less than £85k. 

As if your legal team doesn’t know this. 

[rittohassi]

Still doesn't work without VAT in 2024... Also spent hours editing an ad only to find out it doesn't work when you don't have a VAT number

[Micke681]

And now its 2025 and still no change! 😠 😪

[BINGBANGBONGO]

yep, it's 2025 and I equally just had this issue. They even sent me £1000 ad credit to incentivise sign up but didn't;t mention that you have to earn over £90,000 in revenue to be VAT registered so basically...they don't care about anyone who is worth less than that. EVIL COMPANY. 

[JJJnl]

I agree , I wanted to promote my personal music I published on spotify , and they won't even let me because I do not have a VAT number , I was willing to add my personal tax identification number but that one wasn't allowed , spotify should really consider that there is music creators out there that do not have a registered company 

[Urbantigers]

In 2025 it's still no different. Better get a Vat number then. Shame on you spotify for continually screwing the independant artist. Let me guess there will be another reply saying, we are still looking into this. you need to get some new people spot if eye