What is a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) and how do I get one?
If you just set up your business (e.g. limited company or sole trader) you will have come across the Unique Tax Payer Reference or UTR number for short.
Your UTR number is a 10-digit number (sometimes just called ‘tax reference’) and is assigned to you (sole trader) or your business (e.g. Limited Company). It is comparable to a National Insurance Number (NINO) and handles all tax related issues linked to Corporation Tax (Limited Company), Self Assessment (Sole Trader/Directors), Payroll (PAYE) and VAT. Just like a NINO , your UTR stays with you all your life.
How do I get a UTR number?
You will automatically be sent a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR number) when you:
- Register for Self Assessment
- Set up a limited company
How long does it take to get my UTR number?
HMRC will usually send your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR number) in the post around two weeks after:
- Incorporation (Limited Company)
- Registering for Self Assessment (Sole Trader)
Letters are sent to the business address that is registered with Companies House (Limited Company) and to your correspondence address if you are registering as a sole trader or need to register for self assessment from other income, like landlord rental income or dividend pay-outs received.
What do I need a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) for?
You will need a UTR number to register:
- for Corporation Tax
- You need to register for Corporation Tax not more than 3 months after you started trading!
- as an Employer
- for VAT
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