Lost your UTR number? Our comprehensive guide shows you 5 ways to find your Unique Taxpayer Reference for Self Assessment. Includes HMRC contact details and expert tips.
Your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) is a 10-digit number that HMRC assigns to you when you register for Self Assessment, a partnership, or a company. It is essential for filing your tax return, paying your tax bill, and communicating with HMRC.
Whether you are a self-employed professional, a property owner, or filing for the first time, this guide covers everything you need to know about finding, using, and managing your UTR number in 2026.
Need help with your Self Assessment? Our ACCA-qualified accountants can handle your entire tax return.
Your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) is a 10-digit number that HMRC uses to identify your tax record. Think of it as your personal tax ID number in the UK tax system. It is completely separate from your National Insurance number and is specifically used for tax purposes.
Every individual, sole trader, or partner in a business partnership who registers for Self Assessment receives a UTR. You need this number to file your tax return, make payments, and track your tax account with HMRC.
Limited companies receive a Corporation Tax UTR, and trusts and estates receive their own UTR for tax purposes. Each type of entity has a unique identifier for its specific tax obligations.
Whenever you contact HMRC about your tax affairs, you'll need to provide your UTR. It helps them locate your tax records quickly and accurately.
If you use a tax return accountant, they will need your UTR to act on your behalf and submit your return to HMRC through their online portal.
If you have registered for Self Assessment before, you should have received a UTR. Here are the most common ways to locate it:
When you first registered for Self Assessment, HMRC sent you a letter (form SA250) confirming your UTR. This is often sent when you register for Self Assessment for the first time. Look through your old tax documents and letters from HMRC.
If you have already filed a Self Assessment tax return online, log into your HMRC online account. Your UTR is displayed on your account dashboard and on your previous tax returns.
Your UTR appears on every tax return you file and on payment confirmation receipts from HMRC. If you've filed in previous years, check your saved digital copies or paper records.
If you use a registered accountant, they will have your UTR on file. They can access it through their HMRC agent portal and provide it to you.
If you still cannot find your UTR, contact HMRC by phone. You'll need to confirm your identity with personal details (Name, Date of Birth, National Insurance number, and address) before they can share your UTR.
Your UTR is always 10 digits and is usually displayed in one of the following formats:
Tip: Your UTR should not be confused with your National Insurance number (2 letters, 6 digits, 1 letter) or your Tax Reference number (for PAYE, which is different).
Losing your UTR is common â but it's not a problem. Here's what to do if you cannot locate your 10-digit number:
If you have an HMRC online account, your UTR is usually displayed on the dashboard. If you've forgotten your login details, you can use the "I've forgotten my User ID" or "I've forgotten my password" options to regain access.
HMRC can send your UTR by post to your registered address. This is the same process as when you first registered â you'll receive a letter confirming your UTR within 5-10 working days.
Contact HMRC on the Self Assessment helpline (0300 200 3310). Have your National Insurance number and personal details ready. They will verify your identity and tell you your UTR over the phone.
If you use a tax accountant, they will have your UTR on file through their HMRC agent portal. They can provide it to you instantly.
â ī¸ Important: If you've never registered for Self Assessment, you won't have a UTR. You need to register for Self Assessment first. HMRC will then issue your UTR by post.
Not everyone needs a UTR. You only receive one when you register for a tax regime that requires it. Here's who typically needs a UTR:
Unsure? Use our "Do I Need to File a Self Assessment?" guide to check.
If you don't have a UTR and need one, you must register for Self Assessment. Here is the step-by-step process:
Read our comprehensive guide: Do I Need to File a Self Assessment Tax Return UK?
Visit the HMRC Self Assessment registration page. You'll need your National Insurance number and personal details.
After registering, HMRC will post your UTR letter (form SA250) within 10 working days. Keep this letter safe â it contains your UTR and activation codes for online services.
Use the activation code in your UTR letter to set up your HMRC online account. You'll need this to file your Self Assessment return online.
Once you have your UTR, you can file your return. If you need help, our ACCA-qualified accountants can handle everything from registration to submission.
What is a UTR number used for?
Your UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference) is used to identify your tax record with HMRC. It's essential for filing Self Assessment returns, paying tax, and communicating with HMRC about your tax affairs.
How many digits is a UTR?
Your UTR is 10 digits. It is often displayed with a space after the 5th digit (e.g., 12345 67890).
Is UTR the same as NI number?
No. Your UTR is a 10-digit tax reference number for Self Assessment. Your National Insurance number is a different format (2 letters, 6 digits, 1 letter) used for state benefits and PAYE.
Can I find my UTR online?
Yes, if you have an HMRC online account, your UTR is displayed on your dashboard and on previous tax returns.
What if I've lost my UTR letter?
You can request a reminder from HMRC, check your online account, or ask your accountant for it. You can also call HMRC's Self Assessment helpline (0300 200 3310).
Do I need a UTR for a limited company?
Yes, limited companies receive a separate Corporation Tax UTR when they register with HMRC for Corporation Tax. This is different from a personal UTR for Self Assessment.
How long does it take to get a UTR after registering?
HMRC typically posts your UTR letter within 10 working days of registering for Self Assessment. You can also call HMRC to request it if you need it urgently.
Can I use my UTR if I've moved abroad?
Yes, if you remain liable for UK tax (e.g., rental income in the UK), you keep your UTR. You must update HMRC with your overseas address and may also need to manage foreign income and expat tax rules.
What if I need to register for Self Assessment but missed the deadline?
You should register as soon as possible. Late registration can result in penalties. Our guide on what happens if you miss the tax return deadline explains the consequences and how to fix it.
Your UTR is critical for filing your tax return. Here's how it fits into the process:
On Your Tax Return: Your UTR is entered in the "Taxpayer details" section of your Self Assessment. It links your return to your HMRC tax record.
For Payments: When paying your tax bill, you must quote your UTR to ensure HMRC credits your account correctly.
For Your Accountant: If you use a fixed-fee accountant, they'll need your UTR to act as your agent and submit your return.
đĄ Need to file your tax return? Our ACCA-qualified accountants can handle everything â from finding your UTR to submitting your return to HMRC.
With the ongoing rollout of Making Tax Digital (MTD), your UTR remains essential. Here's what you need to know:
From 2026, MTD for Income Tax is being phased in. Sole traders and landlords with gross income above ÂŖ50,000 must comply. Your UTR is the key identifier for linking your MTD digital records to HMRC.
All MTD-compatible software will require your UTR to submit quarterly updates and end-of-year returns. Make sure you have your UTR handy before setting up tax software or hiring an accountant.
Here are some of our most popular calculators and guides to help you manage your UK tax affairs:
| Identifier | Format | Purpose | Who Gets It |
|---|---|---|---|
| UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference) | 10 digits (e.g., 12345 67890) | Self Assessment, partnerships, trusts, estates | Self-employed, landlords, directors, trustees |
| National Insurance Number | 2 letters, 6 digits, 1 letter (e.g., AB123456C) | State benefits, PAYE, state pension | Everyone (issued at age 16 or upon entering UK) |
| PAYE Reference | Letters and numbers (e.g., 123/AB45678) | Employer PAYE scheme | Employers registered for PAYE |
| Corporation Tax UTR | 10 digits (different from personal UTR) | Corporation Tax for limited companies | Limited companies and associations |
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