How to find your UTR number
Find your UTR number, get one through Self Assessment registration and understand how it works as a UK tax ID.
In one sentence
Your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) is a permanent 10-digit HMRC tax reference found in your tax account, the HMRC app, previous tax returns or HMRC letters.
Quick answer
- A UTR is a 10-digit tax reference, for example 12345 67890, used on tax returns
- Find your personal UTR in your personal tax account, the HMRC app, previous returns or HMRC letters
- Register for Self Assessment to get a UTR; HMRC usually posts it around 15 days later, or longer abroad
- Companies have a separate Corporation Tax UTR; individuals normally use a UTR or National Insurance number as their UK TIN
What is a UTR number?
UTR stands for Unique Taxpayer Reference. It is a 10-digit number HMRC gives you when you register for Self Assessment, or when a limited company is set up. It is sometimes just called your "tax reference".
The format looks like 12345 67890. Your UTR stays the same. You use it on every tax return. A self-employed UTR number is your personal Self Assessment UTR.
Where to find your UTR number
If you are an individual or sole trader, check these four places:
1. Personal tax account on GOV.UK
Sign in to your personal tax account. Your Self Assessment details show your UTR number.
2. HMRC app
Open the HMRC app and sign in to see your UTR in your tax details.
3. Previous tax returns
Look at a copy of a Self Assessment tax return you filed before. Your UTR appears on the return.
4. HMRC letters
Check notices to file, payment reminders and the letter HMRC sent when you registered for Self Assessment.
How to get a UTR number
You get a UTR by registering for Self Assessment. Read our guide on how to register for Self Assessment.
HMRC usually posts your UTR around 15 days after you register. It takes longer if you live abroad. You do not apply for a UTR on its own.
Lost your UTR number?
Check the places above first. If you still cannot find it, contact HMRC through the Self Assessment helpline or webchat on GOV.UK.
Do not register again. That can create a second record.
Company UTR number
A limited company has its own 10-digit Corporation Tax UTR. It is separate from the director's personal UTR. HMRC posts it to the registered office address after the company is set up.
If you lose it, you can request your company UTR online on GOV.UK. HMRC sends it to the business address registered with Companies House.
You can also find it in the company's HMRC business tax account and on HMRC Corporation Tax letters.
Is a UTR the same as a UK tax identification number (TIN)?
The UK does not issue a separate TIN. When a bank, broker or foreign tax form asks for your UK TIN, UK tax ID or tax identification number, individuals normally give their UTR. If you do not have one, you normally give your National Insurance number.
Companies give their company UTR. Check the form's own guidance before filling it in.
UTR vs National Insurance number vs employer PAYE reference
| Identifier | Format example | Who has one | What it is for |
|---|---|---|---|
| UTR | 10 digits, 12345 67890 | People in Self Assessment and companies | Tax returns |
| National Insurance number | QQ 12 34 56 C | Everyone who works in the UK | NI and tax record for life |
| Employer PAYE reference | 123/AB56789 | Employers | The employer's payroll scheme |
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Book a call →Frequently asked questions
Where can I find my UTR number?
Check your personal tax account on GOV.UK, the HMRC app, previous tax returns or HMRC letters. Notices to file, payment reminders and your registration letter can show it.
How do I get a UTR number?
Register for Self Assessment. HMRC usually posts your UTR around 15 days after you register, or longer if you live abroad. You do not apply for a UTR on its own.
What should I do if I have lost my UTR number?
Check your tax account, the HMRC app, previous returns and HMRC letters first. If you still cannot find it, use the Self Assessment helpline or webchat on GOV.UK. Do not register again, as that can create a second record.
Where can I find my company UTR number?
Check the company's HMRC business tax account or Corporation Tax letters for its separate 10-digit UTR. HMRC posts it to the registered office after the company is set up. If it is lost, request it online on GOV.UK and HMRC sends it to the business address registered with Companies House.
What is my UK tax identification number (TIN)?
The UK does not issue a separate TIN. Individuals normally give their UTR or, if they do not have one, their National Insurance number; companies give their company UTR. Check the form's own guidance.
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