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The Daily Insight

How long does it take for your UTR number to arrive?

Author

Sarah Duran

Published Mar 17, 2026

Generally HMRC will issue your UTR within 3-4 weeks, it can be quicker but sometime it takes a little longer. It’s all dependant on how business HMRC are, they do say that it can take up to 8 weeks. If your UTR number doesn’t arrive within time frame you will need to call HMRC on 0300 200 3310.

How can I get my UTR number quickly?

How do I get a UTR number? One of the quickest ways to get a UTR number is by applying online and registering as self-employed. This can be done on HMRC’s website. As soon as you register for self-assessment or set up a limited company, you will automatically be issued a UTR number.

Why have I not received my UTR number?

If you cannot find your UTR Call the Self Assessment helpline to request your UTR if you cannot find any documents from HMRC . If you have a limited company, you can request your Corporation Tax UTR online. HMRC will send it to the business address that’s registered with Companies House.

Can I submit a tax return without a UTR?

Can I submit a tax return without a UTR number? HMRC require a UTR number to accept a tax return. Therefore without one it is impossible to submit a return. .

Is UTR number same as CIS number?

They are both the same reference, a ten digit number e.g. “1234567890”. Are you looking to start in the CIS industry? Claim your UTR number without delay to avoid paying higher rate Tax charges.

What happens if I dont have a UTR number?

You will also need a UTR if you have other forms of income or expenses that require you to file a Self Assessment tax return. If you haven’t got your UTR yet, you will be unable to submit your Self Assessment tax return and could run the risk of upsetting HMRC. Penalties have been introduced by HMRC for late filing.

Can I have 2 UTR numbers?

Do I need more than one UTR number? You cannot get more than one UTR number for a limited company, nor can you get more than one personal UTR for Self Assessment.

Can you have a UTR number and be employed?

You won’t receive a UTR number unless you’re registered as either self employed or as starting a new business. You’ll need to do this on HMRC’s website. HMRC expects you to register within three months of the end of your first month in business. You could be subject to heavy penalties if you fail to do so.

Can I activate my UTR number online?

register for HMRC’s online service. after registering, HMRC will send you your UTR number and ask you to enrol for Self Assessment (this takes about a week) after enrolment, HMRC will send your UTR activation code in the post (another week) activate your Self Assessment using the activation code.

Do I have a UTR if Im not self employed?

You won’t receive a UTR number unless you’re registered as either self employed or as starting a new business. You’ll need to do this on HMRC’s website.

Can I pay a subcontractor without a UTR number?

Can I work as a contractor/subcontractor without UTR? If you are self-employed and YOU ARE working in the Construction Industry (CIS) you can work without a UTR & CIS, however this will affect how much tax you pay. You will pay 30% tax without a UTR & CIS and this will reduce to 20% when your UTR & CIS are activated.

Can I be employed and self-employed?

A person is self-employed if they run their business for themselves and take responsibility for its success or failure. Someone can be both employed and self-employed at the same time, for example if they work for an employer during the day and run their own business in the evenings. …

How do I activate my UTR number?

Activate your UTR for The Construction Industry Scheme

  1. Call HMRC directly on 0300 200 3210. You will need to give them your address, NI (national insurance number) & UTR.
  2. Complete a CIS301 form. You will need to complete the form using your address, NI & UTR. Download the form here or email us and we’ll do it for you.

Are subcontractors classed as self-employed?

Independent contractors and subcontractors are both considered self-employed by the IRS. Both are responsible for making quarterly tax payments including self-employment tax.

Do I need to register as self-employed if I earn under 1000?

Definition of trading allowance The trading allowance is an allowance of £1,000 that’s available to some sole traders. As of 6th April 2017, if you’re a sole trader with income from your business of under £1,000 a year, then you don’t have to register for Self Assessment with HMRC, or pay tax on your business income.