Blog>Trade>Finance>How to get a UTR number for tradespeople
Last updated: 4 December 2023
How to get a UTR number for tradespeople
As a tradesperson you'll need a UTR number for paying tax. This article looks at how to get a UTR and what information you need when you apply.

What is a UTR number?
HMRC’s Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) is a 10-digit number. The UTR is needed by anyone who submits a self-assessment tax return.
For many tradespeople, that means getting a self-employed UTR number when they start their business as a sole trader. You'll receive your UTR when you register with HMRC to pay tax.
A separate UTR to your individual UTR may be needed depending on the legal structure you choose for your business. For example, you might decide to trade as a partnership or a limited company.
Your UTR number never changes
Like your National Insurance Number, your UTR number will never change. If you change from being a sole trader to a partnership your UTR stays the same.
However, if you change your business to a limited company, your limited company will also be given its own UTR number. But your personal UTR will be unchanged.
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Why your trade business needs a UTR number
Tradespeople need a UTR when they set up in business. The UTR is needed by:
Self-employed tradespeople and sole traders who pay tax through self-assessment
Individual partners in a business partnership who pay tax through self-assessment
Limited companies must have a UTR

What HMRC uses UTRs for
You’ll need to know your UTR when you pay taxes as a tradesperson. Here’s our handy guide for tradespeople on filling out a self-assessment form.
HMRC uses your UTR number to track and check that you are paying tax that is due. It helps ensure the right amount of tax is paid at the right time.
How to apply for a UTR number
How to get a UTR number for the first time is fairly straightforward. Probably the easiest and quickest way is to get a UTR number online.
You can apply for a UTR when you register with HMRC for self-assessment. If your business is a limited company, it will need its own UTR. HMRC will send a company UTR to its registered business address.
If you prefer, you can apply for a UTR number by:
Phone – call HMRC on 0300 200 3310
Post – write a letter to HMRC requesting a UTR
It usually takes 10 days to send your UTR number. It can take longer if you apply by phone or post.

Personal information you need to apply for a UTR
When you apply for your UTR number, you'll need to provide HMRC with the following personal details:
Your name and personal details (date of birth, address)
Your National Insurance number
Your phone number and email
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Business information you need to apply for a UTR
As well as your personal information, these business details will also be required:
Your trade business name
Your trade business address
The industry sector you work in
Your trade business address
Your trade business phone number and email
The date you became self-employed or registered your limited company
What happens if you lose or forget your UTR number
Once you have a UTR number, you can find it easily by checking online with HMRC. Your UTR will appear on lots of different official documents from HMRC.
These include:
The letter you receive when you register for a UTR (called a SA250 form)
HMRC notices for you to file tax returns
Reminders to you to make tax payments
Statements of account showing what tax you have paid
Your previous tax returns
FAQs
How long does it take to get a UTR number?
HMRC posts UTR numbers when you register. It usually takes about 10 days for the letter (called a SA250) to arrive.
How do I register to get a UTR number?
You can register for with HMRC online (the quickest way) or by phone or post in order to get the number.
I’m a sole trader and plan to become a limited company – will my UTR have to change?
No. Your individual 10-digit UTR number will never change. When you set up a limited company it is a separate legal entity and will receive its own UTR number.
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