The UK tax system presents difficult challenges to understand, particularly when you start working as a self-employed professional or form a company or receive earnings outside regular employment. Work obligations start with registering for a Tax Reference Number, also referred to as a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number, which serves as your identification to HM Revenue and Customs. A 10-digit UTR stands as the essential identifier that HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) uses to recognise both individual taxpayers and their business entities.
The written procedure remains basic; however, running through the steps in reality demands substantial time investment and possible wait periods, especially if you struggle to understand the steps. The tax compliance process can become simpler thanks to professional Accountants in Oxford who help businesses maintain HMRC regulations since the first day of operation.
What is a Tax Reference Number (UTR Number)?
HMRC provides a Tax Reference Number (Unique Taxpayer References) consisting of 10 digits to use for tax-specific operations. The HMRC system identifies you through this 10-digit reference, which maintains records of all your tax information. The UTR automatically comes to you after you sign up for self-assessment as an individual. All companies obtain their UTR when they complete business registration procedures with HMRC.
You’ll typically find your UTR on:
- SA250 “Welcome to Self Assessment” letter
- Payment reminders
- Self-assessment tax returns
- Notices to file
- Statements of account
If you’ve registered for HMRC’s online services, you can also log into your account and find your UTR number there.
Why You Might Need a Tax Reference Number (UTR Number)
There are several scenarios where a Tax Reference Number is required:
- Self-employed individuals must have one to submit their annual self-assessment tax return.
- Company directors and partnerships need it to manage corporation tax and individual tax filings.
- CIS (Construction Industry Scheme) workers require a UTR to get paid correctly and report income.
- People earning untaxed income, such as rental or freelance earnings, need a UTR for proper reporting.
Submitting a self-assessment return without a valid UTR will result in failure of submission, and you could face fines for non-compliance. Worse, if HMRC discovers someone is trading as self-employed without being registered, penalties and possible prosecution can follow.
How to Get a Tax Reference Number (UTR Number)
To apply for Tax Reference Number (UTR), you must register HMRC. The easiest way is to complete and submit Form SA1—used for registering for self-assessment if you’re not self-employed (e.g., if you earn rental income or have capital gains). If you are self-employed, registering for self-assessment as a sole trader is the appropriate step.
Coxhinkins clients benefit from a simplified process—we send our clients the SA1 form to sign and submit. Once your application is received, HMRC will conduct identity verification and security checks. It can take up to 20 working days, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of the January 31 self-assessment deadline.
If you’re also using HMRC’s online services, you’ll receive an email with your login details. After logging in, your UTR will be visible on your online account.
What Information is Needed to Register?
Applying for a Tax Reference Number (UTR) is free, but you will need the following details ready:
- Full name and date of birth
- National Insurance number
- Home and business addresses
- Contact telephone number and email
- Business start date
- Nature of your business
This information helps HMRC correctly identify and classify your business or income stream, ensuring accurate tax assessments.
Company Tax Reference Number (UTR Numbers)
It’s important to note that companies also receive Tax Reference Numbers (UTRs), which are different from a director’s personal Tax Reference Number (UTR). The company’s UTR is issued by HMRC after company registration and is sent to the registered office address. You can usually find it on the form CT603 “Notice to Deliver a Company Tax Return.” It may be listed under headers like “UTR,” “Tax Reference,” or simply “Reference.”
Also, do not confuse the UTR with your Company Registration Number (CRN)—which is issued by Companies House upon incorporation. The CRN is used for administrative purposes, while the UTR is used solely for tax.
Lost Your Tax Reference Number (UTR)?
If you’ve misplaced your Tax Reference Number (UTR), there are several ways to retrieve it:
- Check previous HMRC correspondence (e.g., SA250 letter, tax returns, or payment reminders)
- Log in your HMRC online account
- Contact HMRC’s self-assessment helpline
The process of keeping HMRC updated about name or address changes requires you to use their online form. You can access this form through the internet for completing your request. Your tax affairs will be communicated through phone and post by HMRC so it is critical to maintain accurate contact information.
Why Work With Accountants in Oxford?
Accountants in Oxford, together with other credible accountancy firms serving Oxford, offer clients comprehensive professional services that simultaneously save time, thereby eliminating stress while upholding UK tax laws. Our group of Chartered Accountants and ACAs provides expert direction in every step of your tax process that spans from UTR registration to filing self-assessments and CIS returns.
Accountants in Oxford help with:
- Registering for a Tax Reference Number (UTR) quickly and accurately
- Navigating self-assessment and business tax returns
- Advising on the best tax structure for your business
- Managing payroll, VAT, and other routine accounting tasks
In today’s fast-paced regulatory environment, keeping up with ever-evolving tax rules can be a challenge. That’s why outsourcing your accounting needs to professionals not only keeps you compliant but also frees up your time to focus on growing your business.
How Coxhinkins Can Help
At Coxhinkins, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, reliable accounting and tax services to self-employed professionals, freelancers, contractors, and small businesses. From securing your Tax Reference Number (UTR number) to managing your end-of-year accounts, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Our clients benefit from
- Stress-free UTR registration
- Timely self-assessment submissions
- Personalised tax planning advice
- Access to webinars and video support for ongoing guidance
With our expert team at your side, you can rest assured your financial affairs are in capable hands.
Need help getting your Tax Reference Number (UTR number) or filing your tax return?
Contact Coxhinkins—trusted Accountants in Oxford—and let us take care of every minute detail so you can focus on what you do best.
