Filing your Self Assessment tax return can be stressful enough without the added panic of not being able to find your UTR number. But don't worry, you're not the first person to misplace it, and you certainly won't be the last.
So, what is a UTR number? Your UTR, or Unique Taxpayer Reference, is a 10-digit number that HMRC uses to identify you for tax purposes. You need it to file your Self Assessment tax return and manage your tax affairs.
The good news is that, like your National Insurance number, your UTR number never changes. Once HMRC issues one to you, it's yours for life. If you had one in the past, even years ago, it's still the same one.
This guide is split into two parts: one for people who have had a UTR before and just need to find it, and another for those who need to register for the first time.
I've Had a UTR Number Before, But I Can't Find It
If you've registered for Self Assessment in the past, your UTR number is hiding in plain sight. Here are the most common places to find it:
1. Check Your HMRC Paperwork
Have a dig through your files for any previous correspondence from HMRC. Your UTR number is printed on most documents they send regarding your personal tax, including:
- Statements of account
- Payment reminders
- The initial letter telling you to complete a tax return
- Your SA250 or "Welcome to Self Assessment" letter
2. Look at an Old Tax Return
If you have a copy of a tax return you’ve submitted in a previous year, your UTR will be clearly displayed on it, usually in the top right-hand corner.
3. Review Correspondence from Previous Accountants
If you used an accountant in the past, they would have used your UTR to file your returns. Check through any old emails, letters, or invoices they sent you. They often include the UTR as a reference, especially on correspondence about your tax bill.
4. Log in to Your HMRC Online Account
This is often the quickest and easiest method. If you have a Government Gateway account (your HMRC personal tax account), you can find your UTR there.
- Log in to your HMRC online account. Click here to Login
- Once logged in, head to the Self Assessment section.
- Your UTR is usually displayed prominently on the dashboard.
5. Don't Have an Online Account? Create One!
If you’ve never set one up, now is a great time. By creating a personal tax account, you can easily view your tax information, including your UTR, once your identity is verified. Follow the link below to create an account with HMRC.
https://www.access.service.gov.uk/login/signin/creds
6. Call the HMRC Self Assessment Helpline
You can call HMRC and ask them to post your UTR to you. For security reasons, they will not tell you your UTR over the phone. They will only send it by post to the address they have on file.
- Telephone (UK): 0300 200 3310
- Telephone (Outside UK): +44 161 931 9070
7. Use the HMRC Webchat
Similar to the phone line, you can chat with an HMRC advisor online. Again, they will not give you the UTR in the chat but will happily post it to your registered address.
Click here to chat with HMRC
I've Never Had a UTR Number Before
If you've never filed a Self Assessment tax return, it's likely you don't have a UTR number yet. This means you need to register for Self Assessment with HMRC. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Register for Self Assessment Online
The most straightforward way is to register online through the GOV.UK website. The system will guide you through a series of questions to determine your circumstances (e.g., self-employed, director, etc.) and get you registered.
- You can find the official link to register for Self Assessment here:
https://www.gov.uk/register-for-self-assessment
2. Chat with an HMRC Advisor Online
If you find the online forms confusing or you're unsure which options to choose, you can use HMRC's webchat service. An advisor can walk you through the process or help register you directly after asking a series of questions.
Click here to chat with HMRC
3. Call the HMRC Helpline
You can also register by calling the Self Assessment helpline. While some advisors may encourage you to use the online service, if you explain that you are struggling, they should be able to register you over the phone.
- Telephone (UK): 0300 200 3310
- Telephone (Outside UK): +44 161 931 9070
Once you've registered, HMRC will post your UTR number to you. This can take a couple of weeks, so be sure to register well before the tax return deadline!
Still Struggling? Let Us Help
We know that dealing with tax admin can be a headache. If you're still stuck finding your UTR or daunted by the registration process, Taxwise Accountancy is here to help.
We can assist you in liaising with HMRC to find your existing UTR. Even better, we offer free Self Assessment registration for UK taxpayers. Let us handle the paperwork so you can focus on what you do best.
Ready to get started? Just follow the link below, fill out the form, and we'll do the rest for you.
https://www.tax-wise.co.uk/self-assessment-registration-hmrc/
