A Unique Taxpayer Reference number (UTR) is assigned to individual taxpayers, limited companies, charities, and trusts. It serves to identify entities in relation to their tax status, including outstanding taxes owed to HMRC or any tax refunds due.

To get a UTR number, you need to fill out an SA1 form, then HMRC will send you a “welcome to self-assessment” notice by post. Applying for a UTR number can take time, so do it well before the January 31st tax deadline. It may take around 20 working days to receive your UTR number after submitting the required information for security verification.

You automatically get a UTR number when you register as self-employed, have untaxed receipts, become a sole trader, start a limited company, or register as a partnership.

If you don’t automatically get a UTR number, you can apply for one online or by telephone. If you suspect you have a UTR but haven’t been told, contact HM Revenue and Customs.

Make sure to have your personal details ready when applying for a UTR number in the UK. Your UTR number, comprising 10 digits, can be found in various HMRC documents.

If you lose your UTR number, contact HMRC immediately to prevent identity theft. Registering for a UTR number is free of charge.