First: accept the DPA
Before you can complete your account profile, you must accept the Data Processing Agreement (DPA). bookto shows it to you automatically the first time you sign in — scroll to the end of the document and click the button to agree.
What is a DPA?
A DPA is a legally binding contract between you and bookto. It sets out the rules for handling personal data. Under the GDPR it is a legal requirement to have a written agreement in place whenever personal data is processed. It ensures your data is handled securely, defines what happens in the event of a data breach, and guarantees your information is only used for the purposes you've agreed to. We cannot legally process your information or provide you with an account without it.
Then: fill in your account settings
Go to My account in your dashboard. The most important step is VAT validation — without a validated VAT number, you can't start selling.
Why VAT validation is required
bookto invoices you monthly for the platform subscription. To issue a valid invoice (and to apply the correct VAT rules for cross-border EU sales), we need a validated VAT number on file. This is a legal requirement, not a bookto preference. If you're not VAT-registered yet, you'll need to register with your local tax authority first. In Belgium this is done through the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (KBO/BCE).
What to fill in
On the My account page, complete:
- Business name — the legal name of your business (e.g. "ianka fleerackers CommV", not your trade name).
- VAT number — including the country prefix (e.g.
BEXXXXXXXXXX). bookto validates this against the EU VIES database in real time. If validation fails, double-check the number and country prefix. - Business address — street, number, postal code, city, country. This appears on your bookto invoices.
- Contact email — where bookto sends billing emails and platform notifications. This can differ from your login email.
Click Save. Once your VAT number is validated (you'll see a green checkmark next to the field), the rest of the dashboard unlocks.
VAT number won't validate? VIES sometimes has delays — newly registered VAT numbers can take a few days to appear. If your number is correct but validation fails, wait 24 hours and try again. If it still fails, contact us at support@bookto.eu.