What is a UTR number?
UTR stands for Unique Taxpayer Reference Number. UTR number is a unique 10 digit number allotted by HMRC to give unique identification to the taxpayers and their tax records. UTR number remains lifelong with the Tax payer in the same way as the national insurance number. It is allotted to individuals, companies, partnership firms, trusts and other organisations that are registered under self-assessment. You can easily found this number written on a PAYE employee forms such as P45, P60, pay slips or paying coding notice from HMRC.
Who needs a UTR Number from HMRC?
UTR number is needed only in case of self-assessment tax return. UTR number must be taken in the following cases –
- If you are a self-employed person
- If you are setting up a limited company
- If you are setting up a partnership firm
- If you owes tax on savings, dividends or capital gains.
- If you are earning more than £100000
You are also required to submit self-assessment tax return in some special circumstances. To see the full criteria, read our guide on self-assessment tax return
How to get a UTR number?
UTR number is automatically issued when you set up a limited company or do registration for self-assessment. There are 3 methods by which you can easily apply for a UTR number -
Register for Self-Assessment Online
After starting a new business, the first thing you need to do is to register for self-assessment online on HMRC portal. After applying for self-assessment, HMRC automatically assigns you with 10 digit unique taxpayer reference number which is sent by HMRC through post.
Apply for UTR Number by Phone
If you want to know your UTR number, you can also apply for the same over phone. You can call HMRC on 0300 200 3310 in order to know your UTR number. When you apply over phone, HMRC may ask you to provide some important details. Sometimes, HMRC may direct you to apply online.
Apply for UTR Number by Post
You can also request UTR number by writing a letter to HMRC. Sending application by post may take time as HMRC may ask you to provide more information.
Where can I find my UTR number?
There are various ways by which you can find your UTR number. It is a unique 10 digit number which can be found on previous tax return & HMRC documents including –
- Self-Assessment Tax Return
- “Welcome to Self-Assessment” letter
- Statement of accounts
- Notice to file tax return
- Payment reminders
In case you are having registration on HMRC website online, you can easily login and find UTR number from your HMRC online account.
Information you will need to get your UTR number
In order to register yourself under self-assessment, you need to provide the following information –
- Full name of the applicant
- Current full address of the applicant
- Date of birth
- Contact number
- E-mail address
- National insurance number
In case you are running your own business, you need to provide the following information –
- Type of business
- Date of starting your business
- Full business address
- Contact number
Why do I need a UTR Number?
UTR number is a unique number used for identifying taxpayer and its tax records. It is necessary to use in the following situations –
- To complete your self-assessment tax return
- CIS registration
- At the time you are working with the accountant or any other person responsible for managing your business affairs.
In case you submit your returns without a valid UTR number, you could be fined by HMRC for not submitting the correct form before the deadline. In case HMRC finds that you are a self-employed person but did not notified them, you will be charged with heavy fines, penalties and even criminal prosecution too.
What is UTR Number for a Company?
UTR number is a number assigned to the company by HMRC at the time of its set up and registration. It is a unique 10 digit number which you can easily found on previous tax return and HMRC notices. Company’s UTR number is different from company’s CRN (Company’s registration number)
UTR number of a company will be send by HMRC through post at your registered office address. It is used for identifying company for tax purposes.
Both UTR and company registration number are two different things. Company registration number is a number assigned to a company immediately after incorporation. It is mentioned on incorporation certificate and issued by company’s house.
How to find a lost UTR number?
You will automatically get UTR number from HMRC in the following cases –
- When registering for self-assessment
- When setting up a limited company
Where to find your UTR Number?
You can easily find your UTR number mentioned on previous tax return & HMRC documents such as notices to file a return, payment reminders etc.
You can also find UTR number in your HMRC online account.
When you unable to find your UTR number?
In case you are unable to find your UTR on HMRC documents, you can also request your UTR number in the following ways –
- By calling self-assessment helpline
- Request your UTR number online (In case of a limited company). It will get delivered to your business address.
How can I reactivate your UTR number?
When you will stop submitting your self-assessment tax return, your UTR number becomes dormant. It will reactivate automatically after submission of tax return again.
What happen if I use the wrong UTR number?
The most common mistake done by taxpayers while filing tax return is entering wrong UTR number. It is advised that you must check your UTR number before filing your tax return. Wrong filing of form or return may lead to fines & penalties. If you know that you have submitted wrong UTR number in your self-assessment tax return, it is your responsibility to contact HMRC in writing or by phone and correct the mistake.
Is the UTR same as VAT registration number?
Both UTR Number and VAT registration number are two different things. UTR number is a unique 10 digit number issued to identify the taxpayer and its tax records whereas VAT registration number is a unique 9 digit number issued by HMRC to identify the VAT registered businesses within 30 days. VAT registration number is mentioned on the VAT registration certificate sent by HMRC via post or through an agent. You can also download VAT registration certificate by login into your VAT online account (if you registered online).
Apply for a UTR Number
If you are facing any issue or want our assistance in applying for UTR number. Kindly call us at 03300886645 or you can also e-mail at business@finacbooks.com
Any Questions? Request a callback from our Tax Experts.
