From 6 May 2025, HMRC will no longer confirm a taxpayer’s Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number over the phone. This change affects individual taxpayers as well as agents calling on behalf of clients.
Instead, UTR numbers will now be accessible exclusively through HMRC’s digital services, either via the HMRC app or a personal tax account on gov.uk. Taxpayers familiar with these platforms should find their UTR displayed in their account, as well as on key tax documents like self-assessment tax returns, notices to file, and payment reminders.
The move is part of HMRC’s broader effort to strengthen data security and reduce the risk of personal information being shared incorrectly. While HMRC has informed professional bodies about this update, it has yet to revise its public guidance on gov.uk.
For those unable to use digital services, HMRC will still confirm UTR numbers by post—but only after a series of security checks. This means that retrieving a lost or delayed UTR could take longer than usual. If you’ve recently registered for self-assessment, it’s important to note that the standard 15-day timeframe for receiving a UTR may now be affected.
Since a 10-digit UTR is required to file a self-assessment tax return, taxpayers should ensure they have access to their number well in advance. Whether you are registering for the first time or updating records, plan accordingly to avoid disruptions under this new system.
With HMRC shifting further toward digital-first tax services, staying informed about these changes is crucial for taxpayers.
