DNS-Accountants

What is a UTR Number - Documents & How to Apply (2025 Guide)

UTR Number or Unique Taxpayer Reference Number is a unique set of 10 digits, for example 1234567890, allocated automatically by HMRC for both individuals and companies that fall under tax payment section. It at times has a letter "K" at the end.

You will automatically get your UTR number when you register for self-assessment or set up a limited company and is personal and private to the party it is allocated to. Format and digits of UTR, once issued remains in the same format forever.

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Why do I Need a UTR Number?

A UTR number connects you with HMRC for all your tax-related obligations.
You’ll need it in several key situations:

  • Registering for Self-Assessment Tax Returns:
    You must provide your UTR when registering for Self-Assessment. If you try to submit a tax return without a valid UTR, it won’t be processed, and you may face late filing penalties and interest.

  • Construction Industry Scheme (CIS):
    If you work for a contractor in construction as a self-employed person, own a limited company, or are a partner in a partnership or trust, you must register under CIS using your UTR.

  • Working with Accountants or Financial Advisors:
    Your accountant or advisor will need your UTR to manage your tax affairs and communicate with HMRC on your behalf.

  • Paying Corporation Tax:
    Companies need their UTR to pay Corporation Tax and file company tax returns.

0345 Numbers Cost For Calling
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How to find the UTR Number

Your UTR is the number that identifies you, and HMRC links it with everything that you do and your tax arrangements.
You will receive a UTR number automatically once you register for your Self-Assessment Tax Return with HMRC; however,
you need to notify HMRC that you are self-employed for it to issue you one

Bank Statement

The UTR number is usually listed with each transaction entry.

Online or Mobile Banking

Check the transaction details for the UTR number.

Confirmation Emails
or SMS

Transaction confirmation messages often include the UTR.
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Documents and Information Needed to Register
for a UTR Number

Documents and Information Needed to Register for a UTR Number

To register for a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number with HMRC, you’ll need the following documents and details:

For Individuals/Self-Employed:

  • Full name

  • Date of birth

  • National Insurance number

  • Home address

  • Phone number and email address

  • Date you started self-employment

  • Type of business

  • Business address and phone number (if different from home)

For Limited Companies:

  • Company name (as on the certificate of incorporation)

  • Company Registration Number (CRN)

  • Registered office address

  • Date trading started

  • Principal business address

  • Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code (describes business activities)

  • The date by which annual accounts will be made up

  • Names and addresses of all company directors

Documents and Information Needed to Register for a UTR Number
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How Do I Activate or Reactivate A UTR Number?

Once you receive your activation code, you would required to activate your registration with HMRC within 28 days of receiving the code. You would need your activation code and UTR number to login to the HMRC website for further steps. Once logged in, you can navigate through various services listed on the HMRC website and select/choose the one which suits your requirement.

How Do I Activate or Reactivate A UTR Number?
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How to Apply for a UTR Number

To apply for a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number in the UK, follow these steps:

For Self-Employed Individuals

For Self-Employed Individuals

  • Register for Self Assessment on the HMRC website.

  • Provide personal details such as your full name, date of birth, National Insurance number, address, and business information.

  • Submit your application online, by phone, or by post.

  • HMRC will send your UTR number by post within 10 working days (or up to 21 days if you are abroad).

For Limited Companies

  • When you register your company with Companies House, HMRC automatically issues a UTR number and sends it to your registered business address within about two weeks.

  • If you do not receive it, you can request your UTR from HMRC by calling 0300 200 3410 and providing your Company Registration Number and business details

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What to Do If I Have Lost My UTR Number?

If you’ve lost your UTR number, you can recover it in several ways:

  • Check HMRC Documents:
    Look for your UTR on previous tax returns, payment reminders, statements of account, or any official correspondence from HMRC.

  • Online:
    Log in to your HMRC Personal Tax Account or use the HMRC app; your UTR will be displayed in the Self Assessment section.

  • For Companies:
    Request your Corporation Tax UTR online; HMRC will send it to your registered business address.

  • Contact HMRC:
    If you can’t find your UTR using the above methods, call the Self Assessment helpline. For security reasons, HMRC will send your UTR by post within 10–15 days.

What to Do If I Have Lost My UTR Number?
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Unique Tax Reference (UTR) Number’s FAQ

Unique Tax Reference (UTR) Number

Your UTR is on previous tax returns and other documents from HMRC, for example:

  • notices to file a return
  • payment reminders

You can also find your UTR in your HMRC online account.

Generally the whole process of getting a UTR Number takes around four weeks, but can take longer during the the end of the tax year.

Generally the whole process of getting a UTR Number takes around four weeks, but can take longer during the the end of the tax year.

No. The Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) is only issued by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) when you, or your client, have registered for Self Assessment.

A tax reference number is provided for each employer or pension provider to identify their tax records with HM Revenue & Customs. It will usually be mentioned on a Tax Number pay slip each time a person is paid. You can also find it on form P45 & Form P60.

You can find your UTR number online in your Government Gateway account.

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