The Salary Calculator

All you need to know about UTR numbers

by Madaline Dunn

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Self Assessment: It’s coming around to that time of year again. While some may have already completed and sent off their annual tax return, there are also many who have not! In 2020, 700,000 taxpayers waited until the last day to file their return, and a staggering 26,562 taxpayers left it to the last hour.

So, if you haven’t filed your tax return yet, and perhaps are doing so for the first time, you may have a few questions, including; what on earth is a UTR number?

Don’t worry; there’s still plenty of time to file your tax return before 31st January and make sure you’re not faced with late payment fines. At The Salary Calculator, in this article, we’ll get you to speed and explain:

• What a UTR number is
• When you need a UTR number
• How to register for a UTR number if you don’t have one
• What will happen after registering for a UTR number
• Where you can find your UTR number

What is a UTR number?

UTR stands for Unique Taxpayer Reference, and this is a 10-digit number that is unique for each person or business. Just as with a National Insurance (NI) number, once you have one, you have it for life. So, even if you’ve been out of business for a while, you’ll never lose your UTR number, your number will just become dormant.

A UTR number is issued by HMRC and sometimes includes the letter K at the end of it.

When do you need to provide a UTR number?

A UTR number is required if you:

• Need to create an online account with HMRC
• Are self-employed or have a limited company
• Owe tax on savings, capital gains, and dividends
• Must register individual taxes
• Work within the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS)

How do you register for a UTR number?

If you don’t already have a UTR number and need one, the most simple and fastest way to get one is to apply online on HMRC’s website.

Of course, not everyone’s preferred method involves a computer or laptop, so rest assured, you can also apply to get your UTR number via letter too. That said, this way is, unfortunately, much slower and will involve postage fees as well.

When it comes to registering for a UTR number, this must be done within the first three months of opening your business, regardless of your occupation.

In order to register, you must also submit a few different pieces of information. This information includes:

• Your name, DOB and address
• Your contact information (preferred number and email address)
• Your NI number
• When you commenced self-employment
• The type of business you have
• Basic business information (address, number, name)

What happens after registering for a UTR number?

Once you’ve applied for your UTR number, there are a few things to bear in mind. First of all, it can take up to ten days for your UTR number to arrive, sometimes longer.

In addition to this, once you’ve heard back from HMRC and received your activation code, don’t wait around too long before using it, as it expires at 28 days.

Where can you find your UTR number?

Your UTR number can be found in a number of places, including:

• Statements of accounts
• Your Self Assessment Tax Return
• HMRC payment reminders
• HMRC Self Assessment notices

If you think you’ve either misplaced or lost your UTR number, don’t panic. Contacting HMRC is your best bet. When reaching out to HMRC, you should have your NI number to hand, as you will be asked for it when you call.

HMRC can be contacted via:

• 0300 200 3310 (UK)
• +44 161 931 9070 (Outside UK)
• 0300 200 3319 (Textphone)

Final thoughts

Navigating the world of tax returns can be anxiety-inducing for some; that said, there are several sites out there that can lend a helping hand. HMRC are always available if you need guidance on your tax return and can answer any burning questions.

Go Simple Tax also helps to make things simple and straightforward. The software provides guidance, as well as hints and tips on how to save money.

Tags: Economy, Employed and Self Employed, Self Assessment, self employed, The Salary Calculator, UTR number