Where Is My UTR Number?

UTR = Unique Taxpayer Reference. It's a code that HMRC assigns you as a person, or to your company as a legal entity.

Your UTR number is on some of the letters that HMRC sends you if you have registered a company or you signed up directly as a self-employed person.

It's a 10 digit code and is part of the reference number on some of the letters they send you.

A UTR number is an important piece of ID and you should not let other people know it for casual reasons.

HMRC make it tricky to find because they don't make it obvious; it looks like a typical in-house reference number that any major body uses to 'tag' your letters.

It's the sort of thing your eyes gloss over because you're reading the body of the letter.

The code is printed on:

- Payment reminders;
- Self-assessment welcome letter;
- Notice to file a tax return;
- Statement of account;
- Your self-assessment tax return.

The UTR can take a while to come through. HMRC recommend that you leave at least 20 working days (i.e. one month)  to receive your number.

Tip: HMRC can be unreliable in sending out letters. If you get no satisfaction by telephone or webchat, write to them, mentioning:

- Your company's name;
- Your company's registration number (CRN);
- Your company's registered office;

... And request your UTR.
 

Useful links: 

Ask for a copy of your corporation tax UTR 

Get a registered office for your UK limited company