Need Help With Your UTR Number?
By David de Sousa
Updated 26th April 2019
This guide will provide easy answers to some of the most frequently answered questions about UTR numbers.
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We know you are busy and don't want to be spending your day reading more than is needed about tax, so we have included a short answer and a longer, more indepth answer as well.
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If you do not see the answer to your question, please contact us so that we can update this guide.
What is a UTR Number?
Short Answer: A 10 digit Unique Tax Payer Reference
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Longer Answer: UTR stands for Unique Tax Payer Reference.
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It is a 10 digit number that the government uses to identify you or your company.
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Everyone who submits a tax return needs a UTR number.
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How to Get a UTR Number Online:
Short Answer: Apply Here
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Longer Answer: There are 2 ways to get a UTR Number.
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You can get it yourself
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A tax accountant can help you get one.
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Every year, you'll need to do a tax return. If you plan on doing your tax return each year yourself then it makes sense to get your UTR Number yourself by registering with HMRC.
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The quickest way to get your UTR number and avoid the paperwork with dealing with HMRC is to use a company to help you.
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Every company that is listed on this site offers a free UTR registration service if you do your tax return with them.
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Unless you are planning to do your tax return yourself, this is usually the quickest and simplest solution.
How to Apply for a UTR Number by Phone:
Short Answer: Call 0300 200 3310
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Longer Answer: HMRC prefers people to sign up online and often when you call they redirect to the website.
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Telephone: 0300 200 3310
Textphone: 0300 200 3319
Outside UK: +44 161 931 9070
Opening times:
Monday to Friday: 8am to 8pm
Saturday: 8am to 4pm
Sunday: 9am to 5pm
How to Find My UTR Number:
Short Answer: Look for a 10 digit number on any letters HMRC have sent you.
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Longer Answer: HMRC should have been sent a UTR number when you:
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Registered as self employed
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Setup a limited company
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If you have lost this document, you can find your UTR number on a number of other letters that HMRC would send to you including:
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Your Tax return
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Your Statement of Account
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Any Tax Payment Reminders
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A Notice to File a Tax Return
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If you do not have any of these documents, we can help you get your UTR number here.
How long does it take to get a UTR Number?
Short Answer: 10 days after you register
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Longer Answer: If you complete the registration correctly and with no issues then it should take 10 days to receive your UTR Number.
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For some people, it can be quicker to use an accountant to get your UTR Number as they know what they are doing and complete the process many times before and are less likely to make a mistake.
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If you are applying from abroad it will take 21 days to get your UTR Number.
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This is another reason why people opt to have someone help them to get their UTR Number.
Is it OK to give out my UTR Number?
Short Answer: Yes
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Longer Answer: It is always a good idea to be cautious with your personal information.
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Don't post your UTR Number publically on the internet or somewhere where anyone can see it.
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If however, it is common for your employer to ask for your unique taxpayer reference number so that they can verify that you are self-employed or a subcontrator.
