Brits have been warned “don’t wait” as part of an HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) reminder. The tax authority urged people to to download its app to access their National Insurance number.
Your National Insurance number features on tax documentation such as payslips or your P60. You can also request written verification containing it and find your National Insurance number online.
Those who have never had one can apply for a National Insurance number. The Government website advises using the HMRC mobile application to confirm your National Insurance number.
GOV.UK explains: “The HMRC app is a quick and easy way to get information about your tax, National Insurance and benefits.” You can also use it to check your:
- Tax code
- Income and benefits
- Employment and income records spanning the previous five years
- Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) for Self Assessment purposes
- Self Assessment tax details and outstanding amounts
- Child Benefit information
- State Pension projections
- National Insurance contribution shortfalls
How to use the app
The app is available for download via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Upon installation, open the app and input your Government Gateway user ID and password for your initial login.
If you don’t have a user ID, one can be generated through the app itself. You can then access the app by signing in using either:
- A six-digit PIN
- Your fingerprint
- Facial recognition
For those without a UK address or uncertain of their National Insurance number, guidance on locating a lost National Insurance number can be found here.
Protecting your NI number
GOV.UK cautions: “To prevent identity fraud, do not share your National Insurance number with anyone who does not need it.”
The following organisations may require your number: