When Do I Receive My National Insurance Number?

A National Insurance number (NI number) is essential if you live or work in the UK. It’s used to track your National Insurance contributions and tax records and is needed when starting employment, registering for benefits, or paying tax through Self Assessment.

This guide explains when you receive your National Insurance number, how to apply if you don’t get one automatically, and what to do if you’ve lost it.

When Will I Need a National Insurance Number?

You’ll need a National Insurance number for:

• Starting work in the UK

• Paying tax and NICs through payroll

• Accessing public benefits or Universal Credit

• Applying for a student loan

• Paying Class 2 and Class 4 NICs if self-employed

• Applying for a UK driving licence or passport in some cases

You must be aged 16 or over and living in the UK to get one.

When Will I Receive My National Insurance Number?

If you are a UK citizen:

• You usually receive your National Insurance number just before your 16th birthday

• It’s sent automatically to the address registered with HMRC or DWP

• It may arrive in a letter from HMRC or DWP, not on a physical card

If you haven’t received it by 16, or if your address was not up to date with government records, you may need to apply for one manually.

When Do Non-UK Nationals Receive Their NI Number?

If you're moving to the UK:

• You may receive your NI number automatically when you apply for a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

• If your BRP doesn’t include it, you’ll need to apply for one through GOV.UK

• You can apply once you’re legally allowed to work in the UK

You don’t need a NI number to start work, but you must apply for one as soon as possible.

Eligibility to Apply for a National Insurance Number

You can apply for an NI number if:

• You live in the UK

• You’re over 16

• You have the right to work or study in the UK

You may also be asked to attend an interview or provide identity documents as part of the application process.

How to Apply for a National Insurance Number

If you haven’t received your NI number automatically, you can apply online:

1. Go to gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number

2. Complete the application form

3. Upload your documents if requested

4. Wait for HMRC to contact you with your number

Processing time can take up to 4 weeks, but may be longer depending on demand or missing information.

What If I’ve Lost My National Insurance Number?

If you’ve forgotten or lost your NI number, you can:

• Find it on your payslip, P60, or tax return

• View it through your Personal Tax Account online

• Call the HMRC National Insurance helpline

• Complete a CA5403 form to request confirmation by post

You won’t be issued a new number, as each person only has one NI number for life.

Where to Find Your National Insurance Number

Your NI number can be found on:

• Your payslips

• Your P60 or P45

• Your Self Assessment return

• Letters from HMRC or DWP

• Your online Personal Tax Account

The format is two letters, six numbers, and a final letter (e.g. AB123456C).

Final Thoughts

Most UK citizens receive their National Insurance number automatically just before their 16th birthday. If you’re an adult moving to the UK or never received yours, you can apply online. It’s important to keep your number safe, as it’s used for tax, employment, and benefit records throughout your life.

If you’ve lost it or aren’t sure whether you have one, HMRC can help you recover or confirm it. Having your NI number sorted early avoids delays when starting a job or registering for services.