For most UK businesses, your UTR number is just as important as your company name, and is issued automatically by HMRC when a company is first registered at Companies House. Without a UTR number, your business can’t file its company taxes, and it can also be required for certain applications (to show the business is registered) or government funding and grants.
But what is a company UTR number and what is it used for? In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about company UTR numbers and how find yours for your business. By the end, you’ll have all the info you need to ensure your business is properly registered and compliant with HMRC.
What is a Unique Taxpayers Reference Number?
First of all, what does UTR stand for? UTR stands for “Unique Taxpayer Reference,” and it’s exactly that – a unique reference number assigned to you by HMRC (HM Revenue & Customs).
Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) numbers are issued by HMRC to allow you access to your company tax returns, to file tax returns and pay any corporate taxes.
Your Unique Taxpayer Reference Number is what identifies you when you submit your corporate tax return or check your previous tax returns, and are vital for staying on top of your corporate taxes.
What is a company UTR number?
Your company UTR number identifies your business as a separate entity for business tax purposes. This number will also appear in any correspondence you receive from HMRC about your business taxes.
Your company Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number is an individual 10-digit number that HMRC issues to all new limited companies as a means to identify companies and allow them to pay corporation tax and file tax returns.
You will need to provide your company UTR number for the following purposes:
- Changing your corporation tax accounting period
- Paying corporation tax
- Contacting HMRC for company related issues
- Informing HMRC about changes to your registered details or company structure
- Filing tax Returns
- Informing HMRC if your business is dormant
- Registering for corporation tax, VAT, and PAYE.
Where Can I Find My Company UTR Number?
To find your UTR number, you can check any payment reminders received from HMRC, as well as your setup emails or any tax reference emails. You can also contact HMRC if necessary to receive your company’s UTR number, but be aware that you will likely need to go through strenuous security measures to do this.
If you are the director of a limited company, your individual and company UTR numbers will be different – your personal UTR for self-assessment is completely different to your company’s UTR.
It’s important to note that sole traders do not have company UTR numbers and will instead use their individual UTR number for self-assessment tax purposes.
What if I can’t find my company UTR?
If you’re starting a new limited company, HMRC will automatically issue your business with a UTR number within 4 weeks of registering as a limited company. If you have not received your UTR number within this time frame, or if you are converting from self-employment to limited company status, you can rerequest the UTR number here.
If you haven’t completed your company formation process, your company accounts won’t yet be registered for a UTR number. To receive your UTR number, you will need to register your limited company with Companies House website first, which we’ll take a look at below.
If you have lost your personal self-assessment UTR number, you can Find a Lost UTR Number on the HMRC website.
How Do I Get a UTR Number For My Limited Company?
A UK limited company has to register with HMRC to pay tax. Business taxes are an unfortunate, but necessary, part of being a small business owner, and it is your responsibility to ensure that your company is registered with HMRC and is able to pay corporation tax and file tax returns.
As a result, when you incorporate a new Limited company it is automatically registered for corporation tax with HMRC, the registration is based on:
- The company’s registered office address (what you registered with Companies House)
- Your company’s unique company registration number (CRN)
The company’s first corporation tax period will be based on the accounting reference date, which is the date your company’s financial year ends on Companies House. This can also be found on your company formation documents.
You can register your limited company with Companies House & HMRC website through their online forms. To ensure the process is handled smoothly, consider working with a small business tax expert. With their help, you can quickly and efficiently register your company with HMRC and receive your UTR number.
Your company’s UTR number is a crucial aspect of your limited company’s tax obligations. It’s important to make sure that you know where to find it and how to apply for it if necessary. By staying on top of this information, you can ensure that your limited company is compliant with all tax regulations.
Company UTR Number FAQs
What does a company UTR number look like?
A company UTR number will have 10 digits, for example: 1234567890. It may also be referred to as a “business tax reference” or a “corporation tax reference.” You will find your company UTR number on official correspondence from HMRC, such as your corporation tax return.
Is UTR the same as a company number?
No, a UTR number is not the same as a company registration number (CRN). A CRN is issued by Companies House when you register your limited company and is used for official administrative purposes. A UTR number, on the other hand, is issued by HMRC and is used for tax-related matters such as filing tax returns.
Can a UTR number change?
No, a UTR number will not change for your limited company. It will always remain the same, even if your company changes its name or structure. However, if you are converting from self-employment to limited company status, you may be assigned a new UTR number for your business.
Looking For Expert Support With Your Business Tax?
At Raw accounting, we offer small business tax support to ensure that your limited company stays compliant with all HMRC regulations. With our expert tax services, we can help you register your company with HMRC and obtain your UTR number, as well as file tax returns and manage payment of corporation tax.
We also offer bookkeeping services and accounting services, helping you to keep track of your company’s financial information and file accurate tax returns every time.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate the sometimes-complicated world of taxes.
