UTR for side income earners

Side income earners create extra income for themselves alongside their main job. If they earn more than £1000 in a tax year, it is likely that they will need to submit a self assessment tax return. To do this, they will need a Unique Taxpayer Reference number. This can be applied for if they don't already have one, or they can find it in a variety of places.

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If you earn more than £1,000 from your side income, you probably will need to submit a Self Assessment tax return. To do this, you will need to have a Unique Taxpayer Reference Number (UTR).

What is a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number?

A Unique Taxpayer Reference number (UTR) is a 10-digit code used by HMRC to identify individuals and companies for tax purposes. Once you have it, it stays with you for life, just like your National Insurance number.

Why do you need a UTR number?

You will probably need a UTR number if you are Self-employed or a Sole Trader, or if you have set up a Limited Company. You will also probably need it if you owe tax on Capital Gains, dividends, or savings interest, or if you earn more than £100,000 a year.

Getting a UTR number is easy, but you have to self-register for one as you're not automatically given one. There are two ways to do this: through apps like Earnr, or through HMRC. If you choose to apply through HMRC, you can do it online, over the phone, or by post.

It's important to note that it takes 10 days to receive your UTR number through the post, so the sooner you apply, the better. If you're working abroad, it takes 21 days.

Do I already have a UTR number? What do I do if I have lost it?

If you're not sure if you have a UTR number, or you've lost it, you can contact HMRC on 0300 200 3310, but make sure to have your National Insurance number ready to hand. Your UTR number should also be in your Government Gateway portal, or you can check any correspondence you've received from HMRC. For example, your tax return should show the number distinctly in the top left corner.

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