Have you ever lost sleep over performance notifications from your Amazon seller account? Counterfeit claims, intellectual property violations, or customer complaints about product authenticity—each red alert feels like a sword of Damocles hanging over your business. Even more daunting are account verification processes like North America's second review or Europe's KYC requirements. In the battlefield of Amazon appeals, what is the most powerful weapon to help you navigate these challenges?
The answer: Value-Added Tax (VAT) invoices.
These seemingly ordinary documents hold tremendous power for Amazon sellers. Developing a habit of issuing regular VAT invoices—ideally every three months—has become an essential practice. In today's verification and appeal processes, the importance of VAT invoices cannot be overstated. They can increase your appeal success rate by at least 10%. While this percentage might seem modest, considering that appeal opportunities are often limited and first attempts have the highest success rate, that 10% could mean the difference between resolution and prolonged complications.
For sellers who haven't maintained regular invoicing practices, it's not too late to start. When issuing retroactive invoices, clearly note "retroactive invoice issuance date" in the bottom right corner and ensure the invoice can be verified through the national VAT invoice verification platform. Be cautious of service providers who issue invoices that are later canceled—these will not meet Amazon's requirements.
Some sellers might protest: "But my business doesn't have a corporate bank account!" If this describes your situation, it's time to prioritize establishing one. A corporate account isn't just about meeting Amazon's requirements—it's fundamental to operating a compliant business.
Essential Requirements for Valid VAT Invoices
- Complete and accurate buyer information: The buyer's name, address, and other details must exactly match your Amazon seller account registration information, including corresponding Chinese information. If the registered phone number isn't functional, provide an alternative contact number. Tax identification numbers, bank account information, and other financial details must be accurately provided—making a corporate account essential.
- Clear product details: The invoice must include product names, ASINs, quantities, and other key information that matches your actual sales records.
- Verified supplier information: Supplier details (name, address, contact information) must be complete and verifiable. Ensure suppliers can be found in the national enterprise credit information system with active operational status and functional contact numbers. Avoid suppliers with abnormal business status to maintain invoice validity.
- Appropriate retroactive timing: Retroactive invoices should cover periods between product listing and removal. However, proactive invoicing remains the best practice.
In summary, VAT invoices serve as critical tools for Amazon sellers navigating account verifications and appeals. Proper invoice management and verification can significantly improve appeal outcomes and safeguard your Amazon business operations.