Here’s what you need to know about accessing this important number
Anyone with a National Insurance number has received an alert from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). In a recent message, HMRC has stressed the need to share it only in certain circumstances.
This crucial identifier could be exploited for identity theft and fraudulent activities, including fake benefit applications or securing loans without authorisation. Through social media platform X, HMRC warned: “Keep your National Insurance number handy.
“Download the HMRC app and access it whenever you need and save it to your digital wallet on your phone. Remember to share it only when it’s required.”
Your National Insurance number is issued prior to turning 16 and stays with you permanently. It ensures your National Insurance contributions and tax records are accurately attributed solely to you.
The identifier consists of two letters, six digits and a concluding letter – for instance, QQ123456B. Your National Insurance number appears on tax documents such as payslips or your P60.
You can also request written confirmation containing it and locate your National Insurance number digitally. Those who have never had one can apply for a National Insurance number.
The Government website recommends using the HMRC mobile application to verify your National Insurance number. GOV.UK states: “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 application 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:
- HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)
- Your employer
- The Department for Work and Pensions (including Jobcentre Plus and the Pension, Disability and Carers Service), for state benefits claimants, or in Northern Ireland, the Department for Social Development
- Your local authority, for Housing Benefit claims, or the Northern Ireland Housing Executive
- Electoral Registration Officers (for identity confirmation during voter registration)
- The Student Loans Company, should you be applying for a student loan
- Your pension provider, if you possess a personal or stakeholder pension
- Your Individual Savings Account (ISA) provider, in case you’re initiating an ISA
- Authorised financial service providers who aid in the purchase and sale of investments such as shares, bonds and derivatives – you can confirm if your provider is authorised
- Veterans UK
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