If you are older than 20, call the National Insurance application line on 08. If you didn't, and are under 20, call the National Insurance number helpline on 03. If you are a UK national, you should receive an NI number automatically before you turn 16.

Your National Insurance number contains two letters, six numbers and a final letter. National Insurance numbers are set by the Department of Work and Pensions.Įach number is unique - they are used to identify you so the government knows how much tax you have paid, how much state pension you might be owed, and to track your tax allowances.Įach person is only assigned one National Insurance number and you'll use the same one throughout your life. If you're self-employed, you'll need to organise these contributions yourself, usually through your self-assessment tax return.Įither way, to ensure you pay the right amount of tax, it's important to check that you have the correct tax code.įind out more: National Insurance contributions - find out who pays what What is my National Insurance number? If you're employed, National Insurance is automatically deducted from your monthly pay. If you haven't met the minimum amount of contributions, you may not qualify for some benefits.įind out more: how do I qualify for the state pension? - when you'll qualify, and what you need to do in advance.

You'll need to pay into National Insurance for a set number of years to be entitled to receive the state pension. Paying National Insurance entitles you to some state benefits, though these vary according to whether you're employed, self-employed or making voluntary contributions.

National insurance number