Filing your taxes or setting up a new company? Here’s everything you need to know on how to identify your UTR number, how to register for one, and what to do if you lose it.
What is a UTR number?
A Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) is a 10-digit number, unique to every UK taxpayer, issued by HMRC. This number is used to identify you for tax purposes. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about your UTR.
What does my UTR look like?
Your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) is a ten digit number that might look something like this:
Example of an UTR number: 4830632569
Some UTR numbers may have the letter ‘K’ at the end.
How do I get a UTR number?
You’ll receive your UTR number automatically when you:
- Register for a self-assessment tax return with HMRC
- Set up a new limited company
You’ll find your UTR number on documents from HMRC, typically on the top right of any letter regarding tax from HMRC. This includes, for example:
- Your SA250, or “Welcome to Self Assessment” letter: You will recieve this letter upon registering for self-assessment with HMRC. It contains your UTR number.
- Tax returns: Any previously filed tax returns will include your UTR number on the document
- Reminders of payment: When you receive a reminder of payment from HMRC, your UTR number will be mentioned to ensure proper identification
- Statements of account: Your UTR number can also be found on statements of account
You can also find it in your personal tax account, or in the HMRC app.
Register for your UTR number
Time to complete your first tax return? Here’s how to apply for your UTR number, whether you are self employed or a partner in a limited company.
For self employed individuals and sole traders:
If you’ve earned over £1,000 before tax relief in the last tax year (from April 6 to April 5 the following year), you need to register for self-assessment with HMRC.
- Access your Business Tax Account on HMRC and register for self-assessment and Class 2 National Insurance.
- You’ll need a user ID and password to access your account.
- After logging in, provide personal details (e.g., name, date of birth, address, email, phone number) and business information (nature of business and start date of self-employment).
- Once registered, your UTR number will be sent to you.
If you are unable to use the online service:
- Fill out the online CWF1 form
- Print and mail the form to HMRC
- After processing, your UTR number will be sent to you by post
For Partners or Partnerships:
You can request a copy of your company UTR number through HMRC online services. Your company must be registered with the Companies House, and you’ll need to provide:
- Company registration number
- Company registered name
After your request is submitted, a copy of the company’s UTR will be sent to the commercial address registered with Companies House.
What if I’ve lost my UTR number?
HMRC have uploaded an easy-to-follow YouTube video on how to retrieve a lost UTR number you can find below:
Credit: HMRC
Can I get my UTR number over the phone?
If you’ve already checked previous correspondence from HMRC and are unable to access online HMRC services, you should contact HMRC directly by phone. You can call HMRC’s Self-Assessment helpline on 0300 200 3310. Be prepared to provide personal details and your national insurance number. Note also, HMRC cannot give your UTR directly over the phone for security reasons, so it will take around 10 to 15 days to arrive in the post.
Whether you’re self-employed, a sole trader, or in a partnership, your UTR number helps you stay in touch with HMRC and meet your tax responsibilities. If you ever lose your UTR number, you can easily get it back using HMRC’s services.