A UTR is a Unique Tax Reference number. Made up of ten digits, your UTR is, as the name suggests, unique to a person or company. But what is it for, why do you need one, and where do you find it? This guide offers a clear explanation of everything you need to know about UTR numbers.
What Is A UTR?
A UTR number is used by HMRC to identify an individual or company for anything tax-related. Anyone who has to file a tax return, such as the self-employed, will need a UTR number. You may already have one, and the good news is it never changes – so once you know yours, you’ll never need to remember another!
Your UTR number helps HMRC to keep an eye on your tax records, which means they can ensure all your payments are correct. It also means you can file tax returns.
You should be aware that, although UTR numbers are important for self-employed people, there are other reasons you might need to file a tax return and therefore need a UTR number. For example, if you had more than £10,000 of income from savings before tax, or if your untaxed income was greater than £2,500.
Where Do I Find My UTR Number?
When you register for self-assessment, you’ll be issued a personal UTR number. If you’ve started a new company, the company will receive a UTR number at the time of its incorporation.
When you start the self-assessment process and register for a UTR number, you’ll need to fill out a form from HMRC. This can be found on their website, and you can print it or submit it online. Completing the form requires information such as your name, date of birth and National Insurance number, as well as the date you became self-employed.
If you’ve already been issued a UTR number but you’re not sure what it is, don’t panic. It can be found on your previous tax returns, as well as any other documents from HMRC, such as payment reminders, statements of account, notices to file a return and your ‘Welcome to self-assessment’ letter, which you may know as an SA250.
You can also find your UTR number online, in your Personal Tax Account.
If you can’t locate your UTR number on any of your documents, get in touch with HMRC by calling their Self-Assessment Helpline, and they’ll let you know what it is – although, for security reasons, they can’t tell you on the phone, so you’ll have to wait for it to be posted to you. If you’re looking for your company’s UTR number, you can request it online.
What if I still have questions?
Now that you know about what a UTR number is and where to find it, you may have more questions concerning not only the number itself, but about self-assessment and tax returns. One benefit of knowing your UTR number is it means you can work with an accountant. Here at AccountantFor, we are on hand to help and advise you when it comes to your tax returns, and assist with any queries you might have about the process.
Last Updated on August 15, 2022 by Michael Bush
Michael is the owner of AccountantFor, which is part of the Bula Media group. As an experienced business owner and investor, Michael wanted to build AccountantFor through his personal experience of his frustration in finding the most suitable accountant for his requirements. In addition to this, we bring a number of expert views from accountancy and financial experts to help small businesses and sole traders.
