Ever been asked for a TIN number and had no idea what it is? You’re not the only one. 

Just to clarify right off the bat, it’s got nothing to do with baked beans or tomato soup. In case you were wondering.

Many people searching for a "TIN number UK" are met with confusing answers, because, technically, the UK doesn’t have a single Tax Identification Number (TIN) like other countries.

While the term TIN is widely used internationally for tax reporting, the UK uses different tax numbers for different purposes. Like filling out an international tax form, opening a bank account abroad, or dealing with HMRC, the number you need depends on your situation.

In this guide, we’ll break it all down - what a TIN number is, whether the UK has one, and which UK tax numbers (like UTR, NINO, and VAT numbers) serve the same purpose. Let’s clear up the confusion so you can find the right tax number without the headache!

What is a TIN number?

According to HMRC, a TIN number is "a unique combination of letters and/or numbers used to identify an individual or entity for the purposes of administering the tax laws of that jurisdiction." Think of it as a tax fingerprint, it helps governments make sure the right people and companies are paying the right amount of tax.

Different countries have different names for their TINs.

For example:

• In the US, it’s the Social Security Number (SSN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• In Germany, it’s the Steuerliche Identifikationsnummer (Steuer-ID)
• In Spain, it’s the Número de Identificación Fiscal (NIF).

But here’s where it gets a bit tricky - the UK doesn’t officially use the term "TIN." Instead, we use different numbers depending on the situation, like the National Insurance Number (NINO), Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), or VAT number.

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Does the UK have a TIN number?

Short answer? No, the UK doesn’t have a single Tax Identification Number (TIN).

Longer answer? While many countries issue one official TIN for individuals and businesses, the UK uses different tax-related numbers depending on your situation. If you’re being asked for a "TIN number UK," what you actually need will depend on why you're being asked for it.

Here are the main UK tax numbers that might be requested instead of a TIN:

1. National Insurance Number (NINO) – for individuals

• Used for UK tax, benefits, and employment records.
• If you’re working or self-employed in the UK, this is the number HMRC uses to track your tax and National Insurance contributions.

2. Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) – for self-employed individuals and companies

• Given to anyone who registers for Self Assessment or runs a Limited Company.
• The UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference) is used by HMRC to manage tax records for self-employed people, landlords, and businesses.

3. Company Registration Number (CRN) – for registered businesses

• Issued by Companies House when a Limited Company is set up.
• Used for company records and filing tax returns.

4. VAT Registration Number – for VAT-registered businesses

• If your business is VAT-registered, HMRC assigns you a VAT number. Not sure if you need to be VAT registered? Find out more here.
• Needed for VAT reporting and invoices.

So, which one do you need?

If an organisation is asking for your TIN, check what they actually mean.

For UK tax purposes:

• If you're an individual, your NINO or UTR is usually what’s needed.
• If you're a business, it could be your UTR, CRN, or VAT number, depending on the situation.

If you’re dealing with an international tax form, check the instructions. Some forms specifically mention that a UTR or NINO can be used as the UK’s equivalent of a TIN.

When might you need a TIN in the UK?

Even though the UK doesn’t have a TIN, you might still be asked for one in certain situations.

Here’s when:

• International tax reporting – If you're dealing with overseas tax authorities (e.g., FATCA, CRS compliance), they might ask for your UTR or NINO as the UK equivalent.
• Opening a foreign bank account – Some international banks require a TIN for verification, in which case your UTR or NINO should be provided.
• Trading internationally – If you do business abroad, suppliers or tax authorities might request a TIN—your VAT number or Company Registration Number (CRN) may be needed.
• Filling out tax forms for foreign investments – Certain tax documents, like US W-8BEN forms, may ask for a TIN; your UTR or NINO is usually accepted.

If unsure, check with the organisation requesting the TIN to confirm which UK tax number they need.

How to find your UK Tax Identification Number

Need to track down your NINO, UTR, or VAT number? Here’s where to look:

• National Insurance Number (NINO) – Check your payslip, P60, HMRC letters, or your Personal Tax Account online.
• Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) – Find it on Self Assessment tax returns, HMRC letters, or via your Government Gateway account.
• Company Registration Number (CRN) – Search for your business on the Companies House website.
• VAT Registration Number – Check invoices, VAT returns, or your VAT certificate.

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Lost your tax number?

If you can’t find it, contact HMRC (for NINO, UTR, or VAT) or Companies House (for CRN).

Common questions about TINs in the UK

At Crunch we get a lot of frequently asked questions from our clients about TIN numbers. So we thought we’d round off this article by sharing our answers to these here.

Is a TIN the same as a UTR or NINO?

No, but your UTR or NINO is often used as the UK equivalent of a TIN.

How do I apply for a UK TIN?

There’s no UK TIN, but you can apply for a UTR (via HMRC for Self Assessment) or a NINO (if you’re working in the UK).

What if I need a TIN for an international tax form?

In most cases, use your UTR or NINO. If you’re a business, you might need your VAT number or CRN.

Can I check my UK TIN online?

You can check your NINO, UTR, and VAT number via your HMRC online account or by looking at tax-related documents.

Summing up what is says on TIN

The UK doesn’t use a single Tax Identification Number (TIN) like other countries. Instead, depending on your situation, you’ll need one of these:

• NINO – for individuals paying tax and National Insurance.
• UTR – for self-employed individuals and companies.
• CRN – for limited companies.
• VAT Number – for VAT-registered businesses.

If you’re asked for a TIN, check what the requesting organisation actually needs—your UTR or NINO is usually the UK equivalent. 

Hopefully this guide has brought you fully up-to-speed on TIN numbers, or at the very least you know you don’t need a tin-opener to get one. For more expert help with all things tax related get in touch with Crunch today and find out how we can boost your finances. 

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional tax advice. Tax laws and regulations can change, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified tax professional or accountant for advice specific to your circumstances.