HMRC tells millions to look out for 10-digit code | Personal Finance | Finance

HMRC has issued a fresh alert to millions of taxpayers filing a Self Assessment return, warning they must have their vital 10-digit Unique Taxpayer Reference to complete the process.

The warning comes as Self Assessment season gathers pace, with millions expected to file returns by the deadline of January 31 or face the risk of a fine.

• An immediate £100 penalty is charged as soon as you miss the deadline, even if no tax is due.
• 3 months late – additional £10 per day up to a maximum of £900.
• 6 months late – further penalty of 5 % of the tax due or £300, whichever is greater.
• 12 months late – another 5 % of the tax due or £300, whichever is greater.

In a video message on YouTube, HMRC tells taxpayers: “You’ll need this 10 digit number to complete your self assessment tax return.”

The department is pushing people towards the official HMRC app, describing it as “a quick and easy way to find your self assessment unique taxpayer reference.”

HMRC says the app is “free and secure” and can be used “anytime on any smartphone or tablet once you’ve signed in.” It adds that there are “two ways to find your unique taxpayer reference” using the app.

Explaining the first option, HMRC says: “The first way is to tap on your details, and here you’ll see your unique taxpayer reference number.”

Once located, taxpayers are told: “Now you’ve found it, you can copy your number and save it somewhere safe.”

HMRC also highlights that the number can be shared with professionals, adding: “If you have a tax agent, accountant or bookkeeper, you can send it to them.”

The second option is accessed from the main menu, where HMRC says the UTR appears under Self Assessment. “Here you’ll see your number. To copy it, tap on the copy symbol.”

The app also shows other key information, with HMRC noting: “You’ll also see what tax you owe and when it’s due, and you can make a payment here.”

Crucially for frustrated taxpayers used to long waits on the phone, HMRC makes its message clear: “You can use the app at any time to find your unique taxpayer reference, so you won’t need to call us once you’ve used the app.”

Access to the app is secured using modern sign-in methods. HMRC says users can log back in using “your six digit PIN, facial recognition or your thumb print.”

HMRC adds that the app is available on both major platforms, telling taxpayers: “You can download the app from Google Play for Android devices or from the App Store for Apple products.”