National Insurance Number – all you need to know!

The National Insurance Number is one of the biggest concerns for new arrivals in the UK. Breytenbachs has answered some of the most FAQ on the topic of the National Insurance Number.

What is a National Insurance Number?

The UK National Insurance(NI) number is a unique number made up of letters and numbers, allocated by the UK Department for Works and Pensions.

It is basically used by the Department for Works and Pensions and the HM Revenue & Customs to identify a person.

A person keeps the same NI number of life. Every number assigned is unique and only used for one particular individual.

It is assigned to persons over the age of 16 in order to make sure that their National Insurance contributions and Tax are recorded against their name. HM Revenue & Customs also use this number to ensure that a person pays the correct amount of tax every year.

The NI number is also used as a reference number in communication between a person and the Department for Work and Pensions, and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) respectively.

The NI Number is displayed on a person’s payslip; P60; tax letters and benefits. It is also on the National Insurance section of a person’s personal tax account.

Who needs a National Insurance Number?

All persons who want to work in the UK, have to get a NI number. Persons who do not have an NI number have to apply for one.

It is only possible to apply for one’s NI number once you are in the UK. You have to have the right to work or study in the UK before you are able to apply for your National Insurance number.

Some migrants already have the National Insurance Number printed on the back of their Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

There are a number of organisations that will require your NI number.

What will happen if I do not have a National Insurance Number?

It is possible to start work in the UK before your NI number arrives. However, you have to be able to prove that you can work in the UK. You have to inform your employer that you have applied for an NI number and provide them with the number as soon as you receive it.

How do I apply for my National Insurance Number?

In order to apply for your NI number, you have to phone the National Insurance number application line in the UK.

You can phone them on 0800 141 2075, or by textphone on 0800 141 2438.

Please contact us today for further information or applications.

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