When running a business in the UK, managing your Corporation Tax is important. One key part of this is understanding your Corporation Tax Reference Number (CTRN), a special number given by HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) to identify your company for tax reasons. In this guide, we’ll explain what a Corporation Tax Reference Number is, why it’s so important, and how to find it when you need it. If you’re wondering, how do I find my CTRN, this blog will help clear things up.
A Unique Tax Reference (UTR) is a 10-digit number given by HMRC to companies and people who register for Self-Assessment. It’s unique to each business or individual, and it’s essential to keep it safe when setting up your company.
At SAS KPO Services, we understand how crucial it is for businesses to manage their taxes properly. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about your UTR, why it’s necessary, and what to do if you lose it.
What is a Corporation Tax Reference Number (CTRN)?
A Corporation Tax Reference Number (CTRN) is a unique 10-digit number given by HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) to identify your company for tax purposes. Every limited company in the UK, no matter its size, must file a Corporation Tax return each year. CTRN is a key part of this process. It is also known as the Corporation Tax Unique Taxpayer Reference (CT UTR) because it helps HMRC track your company’s tax records.
Once your company is registered with Companies House, HMRC will issue your CTRN. You’ll need this number to file your Corporation Tax return, make payments, and communicate with HMRC about your company’s tax responsibilities. It’s an essential number for any business to keep track of.
Who Needs a Corporation Tax Reference (CTR)?
If you need to file tax returns with HMRC, you’ll need a unique tax reference (UTR) also called corporation tax reference. This includes self-employed people who report their income through Self-Assessment. Company directors and shareholders also need a UTR if they receive untaxed income from the company, like bonuses or directors’ loans. These payments must be reported on a Self-Assessment tax return, and you can’t do that without a UTR.
When you register with a company, it will need a UTR. This is sometimes called “tax reference” or “Corporation Tax reference.” UTR allows your company to register for Corporation Tax, file a Company Tax Return every year, and pay its tax bills.
It’s important to note that a UTR issued to people for Self-Assessment is called a personal UTR, not to be confused with a company UTR. The company UTR is different from the company registration number (CRN) and VAT registration number. These numbers serve different purposes, so be careful not to mix them up.
How Can I Locate My Reference Number for Corporation Tax?
If you’ve lost the letter from HMRC or never received it, don’t worry. There are a few easy ways to find your Corporation Tax Reference Number (CTRN):
Check Previous HMRC Letters:
HMRC often includes the CTRN in any official letters or emails they send you. These could be reminders about tax payments, filing deadlines, or updates about your tax account. Look through any HMRC similarity have, as it’s likely the number will be listed.
Log Into Your HMRC Online Account:
A simple way to find your CTRN is by logging into your HMRC online account. If you’ve already registered your business for Corporation Tax, you can easily access your company’s details, including the CTRN, by signing into your account.
- Steps to Find CTRN Online:
- Click “Sign In” on the HMRC website to access your account.
- Use your Government Gateway ID and password to log in.
- Find the “Corporation Tax” section under your account services.
- Your Corporation Tax Reference Number will be displayed here, along with other important company details.
Ask Your Accountant:
If you have an accountant handling your taxes, they will have a record of your CTRN. Accountants keep this number as it’s necessary for filing returns and making payments.
Call HMRC:
If you can’t find your CTRN, you can always call HMRC’s Corporation Tax helpline. After verifying your identity and company details, they will help you get your number. It’s a good idea to have your company registration number and other details ready when you call.
Can I Use My Personal UTR for My Company?
No, you can’t use your personal Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) as your company’s UTR. A personal UTR is given to people who register for Self-Assessment, while a company UTR is provided by HMRC after your company is combined. The company UTR is used to identify your business for tax purposes.
Important Insight
The UK tax system uses both personal and company UTRs, assigning them different purposes that cannot be exchanged. Personal UTRs are for individual tax filing through Self-Assessment, while a company UTR is specifically for corporation tax.
If you’re wondering, how do you find your Corporation Tax Reference Number, remember that it is different from other tax-related numbers like:
VAT Number:
Given to VAT-registered businesses for invoicing and reporting.
EORI Number:
Required for businesses involved in importing or exporting goods within or outside the EU.
DUNS Number:
An internationally recognised identifier for businesses, used for credit and risk management.
PAYE Reference Number:
Given for employers to handle payroll and tax filings.
Company Registration Number (CRN):
The unique number assigned to your company when registered with Companies House.
Accounts Office Reference:
Used to identify your company’s payroll account with HMRC.
Companies House Web filing Authentication Code:
A 6-character code used for online filings with Companies House.
Tax Identification Number (TIN):
This includes your UTR, National Insurance Number (NINo), CRN, VAT number, and PAYE reference, all important for tax compliance.
Right to Work Share Code:
A code issued to verify an employee’s entry status for working in the UK.
To find your Corporation Tax Reference Number, you can check HMRC letters, log into your HMRC online account, or ask your accountant.
Creative Ways to Find My Corporation Tax Reference Number
If you’re looking to find your CTRN, there are several simple ways to track it down. Here are some methods that might help:
Review Past Tax Payments:
If your business has made any tax payments in the past, the Corporation Tax Reference Number may be listed on these payment records.
Check Financial Statements:
Some businesses include their Corporation Tax Reference Number in their financial reports or other official documents.
Ask Your Accountant or Financial Advisor:
If you work with an accountant or financial advisor, they are likely to have your Corporation Tax Reference Number in file.
Check with a Company Secretary:
If your company has a secretary, they may have the number, especially if they handle the company’s HMRC similarity.
Look for HMRC Letters:
Sometimes, letters from HMRC about other taxes (like VAT or PAYE) might include your Corporation Tax Reference Number.
Use Your Online Tax Account:
If your business has a tax account with HMRC, you can log in and find your Corporation Tax Reference Number there.
Tax Software Accounts:
If you use tax software for filing returns, your Corporation Tax Reference Number may be stored in your account settings.
Bank Statements:
If your business has made tax payments through the bank, your bank statements might show the Corporation Tax Reference Number in the transaction details.
Legal Documents:
Documents related to your company’s training or agreements might list your Corporation Tax Reference Number.
Annual Tax Summaries:
Your Corporation Tax Reference Number could be included in the annual summary HMRC sends out.
Old Tax Returns:
You can also find your CTRN on your company’s past tax returns, which you can recover from HMRC’s online portal or by contacting their helpline.
Company Credit Reports:
Credit reports from agencies like Experian or Dun & Bradstreet may include your Corporation Tax Reference Number.
Business Loan Documents:
Lenders may require your Corporation Tax Reference Number when you apply for loans or overdrafts, and you can find it in the documents.
VAT Registration:
If your company is VAT-registered, your Corporation Tax Reference Number may appear on your VAT registration certificate.
Company Contracts or Agreements:
Documents like property rental agreements, mobile contracts, or business insurance policies might ask for and include your Corporation Tax Reference Number.
Important Reminder:
Not every document or record will include your Corporation Tax Reference Number, but these are good places to start. If you’re having trouble finding it, don’t hesitate to contact HMRC or consult a tax professional.
Remember, if you’re unsure or can’t locate it, you can always check how to find my Corporation Tax Reference Number directly through HMRC or with professional help. Always protect your tax details securely!
How to Inform HMRC That Your Company is Active?
When your company starts trading, you must let HMRC know that your business is now active for Corporation Tax. You need to do this within 3 months of beginning any business activity.
Here’s how you can inform HMRC:
Online Registration:
The easiest way is to use HMRC’s online service to register your company as active. You’ll need your 10-digit Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number, Government Gateway user ID, and password to complete the process.
Register by Post:
If you prefer, you can send a letter to HMRC, signed by a company director or secretary. Your letter should include:
- Your company’s name and registration number (CRN)
- The address where your business is based
- The names and home addresses of all company directors
- A description of the business activities
- The date your business started trading
- The date your annual accounts will be prepared
Once HMRC gets this information, they’ll calculate your accounting period and set the deadlines for your Corporation Tax payments and tax returns.
If your company is not trading (resting), you must inform HMRC by phone or post to notify them of this status.
Tip:
If you are unsure about your Corporation Tax Reference Number or have lost it, remember you can always find your CTRN through HMRC’s online platform or by getting help from a tax professional.
Ending Note
Finding your Corporation Tax Reference Number (CTRN) is an important step in managing your company’s tax responsibilities. Whether you’ve just started your business or need to locate a lost number, there are several ways to easily find it, like checking your HMRC letters, logging into your HMRC online account, or contacting your accountant. Remember, this unique 10-digit number is crucial for filing your tax returns and staying compliant with HMRC.
At SAS, we understand how important it is to keep your business running smoothly, especially when it comes to accounting and tax matters. Our outsourcing services, including VAT returns, financial reporting, payroll management, and tax compliance, are designed to help you focus on what matters most to grow your business. Let us handle the behind-the-scenes tasks, so you can concentrate on success. Reach out to us today to discover how we can help streamline your business processes and improve efficiency.
Shivani Soni (Digital Marketing Specialist, Top Marketing Voice) writes this blog
