Beginner’s Guide On How To Get Your UTR Number In The UK
Starting a business in the UK comes with plenty of responsibilities, and understanding tax requirements is one of the most important. During the setup process, many new business owners hear about a UTR number without fully understanding what it is, why it matters, or how to get one. This often creates confusion, especially when dealing with HMRC for the first time.
The good news is that obtaining a UTR number is usually straightforward once you understand the process. Whether you are a sole trader, limited company director, or managing a dormant company, knowing when and how to register can help you avoid delays and stay compliant from the beginning.
This guide explains what a UTR number is, why you need one, and the steps involved in getting one in the UK.
- What Is a UTR Number and Why Do You Need One?
The first step in finding out how to get your UTR number is to know what it is. A UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference) is a 10-digit identifier that HMRC uses for tax purposes to identify you or your business. It looks something like this: 0123456789.
All businesses require one. HMRC uses your UTR to keep a record of your tax requirements, regardless of whether you are a sole trader, a partner of an LLP, or a company director of a limited company. If you don’t, you can’t file a Self Assessment tax return or deal with your Corporation Tax. Put simply, it’s the basis for your relationship with HMRC.
Importantly, your personal UTR is different from your company’s UTR. HMRC provides a personal UTR for people who register for Self Assessment. After incorporation, a separate UTR is issued for the company. These are two different numbers and not interchangeable. An error in a tax filing can result in unnecessary delays and compliance issues.
- How Do You Get a UTR Number for a Limited Company?
The process is usually automatic if you have recently formed a limited company. HMRC is notified by Companies House when you register. HMRC will then provide your company with its UTR and send it to the address of your registered office (usually within two weeks of incorporation).
In the majority of cases, it is not necessary to submit an individual application. Be sure to have the right registered office address, though. Unfortunately, HMRC posts the UTR, so if you list the wrong address, you might not get it.
If you have not received your UTR within two weeks, please call HMRC directly on 0300 200 3310. After receiving it, keep it safely, and it will be required for all future Corporation Tax returns. Another interesting note, your UTR will be found on all further interaction with HMRC, so this is a good practice from the outset to keep those letters organised.
- How Do You Get a UTR Number as a Sole Trader?
If you’re a sole trader or are required to register for Self Assessment, you’ll need to register directly with HMRC. This can be completed online via the HMRC website with your Government Gateway ID. After registration, HMRC will send your UTR to you by post – typically within 10 working days.
Remember, processing times may be longer around UK bank holidays. Be sure to register in advance of tax deadlines.
Once you’re registered, you’ll see your UTR on your personal tax account on the HMRC website or app. It’s also printed on any letters or notices from HMRC, such as your notice to file a tax return. It is highly recommended that you register for Self Assessment as soon as you are self-employed. If you miss the deadline for registering (5 October after the end of the tax year you began trading), you may get a financial penalty. Therefore, the sooner you take action, the better.
- How Do You Get a UTR Number for a Dormant Company?
If your company is registered as a dormant company and didn’t get a UTR, you will need to tell HMRC that your company is now active. It has to be done within three months of commencing trading, interest, or any business activity.
The process is as follows:
Step 1: Collect your data. You must be prepared before you start:
- Company registration number
- Registered office address
- The names and homes of all company officials
- Type of business operations
- The time when trading began
Step 2 — Log in to HMRC’s online service. Use your Government Gateway ID to log in and choose the ‘enrol for Corporation Tax’ option and follow the instructions.
Step 3 — Get your tax deadline. The first payment of Corporation Tax will be confirmed by HMRC. You are obliged to file a Corporation Tax return, even if your company has lost money or there is no tax to be paid.
Please register by writing to: HM Revenue and Customs (BX9 1AX), United Kingdom. Your letter should contain your company name, the company’s registration number, the beginning date of your accounting period, the address of your business, the description of your business, and the names and addresses of all of your directors. Have a director or secretary of the company sign the letter and add a statement certifying the information is accurate and complete.
- Where Can You Find Your UTR Number If You’ve Lost It?
Lost track of your UTR? It is actually more common than you may believe. Thankfully, there are several avenues to explore before reaching out to HMRC.
First, look at any HMRC letter you have received. The UTR is shown on your tax returns, notices to file, and payment reminders. To log in to your personal tax account on the HMRC website or HMRC app, your UTR will appear once you have filed at least one return.
If you’re still unable to find it, phone HMRC’s Self Assessment helpline. Once you have been properly identified, they will send you your UTR by mail within 10 working days.
Just one final thing – your UTR is NOT your VAT number, Company Registration Number, PAYE reference or EORI number. All have their own function in the UK tax and compliance framework. It can be easy to get them confused and file incorrect documents, which can lead to issues later on. Always double-check if you aren’t sure which number you’re filling out. If you’re not sure, review your previous correspondence with HMRC or log into your online tax account for guidance.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a UTR number doesn’t need to be stressful. It comes with the incorporation for most of the limited companies. Once you understand the process, getting a UTR number is usually straightforward.
The important thing is to act early, organise yourself, keep your details up to date, and store your UTR safely as soon as you get it. This is one item you can check off your list with confidence when you do it right.
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