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The Global Insight

Can you get another copy of your National Insurance number?

Author

Michael Gray

Updated on March 24, 2026

If you have lost your National Insurance number card you may be able to find the number either on your payslip, P60 or on a tax return. If you still can’t find the lost National Insurance number card you can receive a replacement. However, this will be sent to you in the post and will not be given over the telephone.

Can I get my NI number online?

Online. If you’ve lost or forgotten your National Insurance number, or need a letter confirming it, you can: register for or log in to your personal tax account to view or download, print, save or share a letter with it on. fill in the online form and post it to us, if you’re unable to register for a personal tax …

What can be used instead of National Insurance number?

Payslips, salary statement or works pension statement (as long as it shows your NINo). Letter that the Pension Service or Jobcentre Plus has sent to you (not handwritten). NINo card (not handwritten).

How can I find my National Insurance number?

You can find your National Insurance number:

  1. on your payslip.
  2. on your P60.
  3. on letters about your tax, pension or benefits.
  4. in the National Insurance section of your personal tax account.

What do I do if I lost my National Insurance card?

If there are taxes or benefits being recorded against your national insurance number that have nothing to do with you, you need to report this to HMRC. The HMRC fraud hotline: 0800 788 887. It’s not possible to steal an N.I. number.

How long does it take to get an NI number?

It can take up to 16 weeks for you to get your National Insurance number after you have proven your identity.

Can you get your NI number over the phone?

HMRC will not provide your National Insurance number over the phone – it will be posted to you. If you didn’t get an NI number when you turned 16, you can also phone the National Insurance numbers helpline on 0300 200 3500.

Can I still work without a National Insurance number?

Is it illegal to work without an NI number? The NI number is not technically an HMRC requirement so therefore it is not illegal. Having an NI number will ensure you are on the correct tax code, pay the right tax and are able to apply for a tax refund at the year end, should you be owed one.

Can someone work without an NI number?

All employees should have a National Insurance Number (NINO) & give it to their employer although it is not a legal requirement to obtain work without one. The NINO ensures the National Insurance Contributions and Tax are recorded against the correct named employee when submitted to HMRC.

Where can I Find my Lost National Insurance number?

You can find your lost National Insurance Number by phoning the HMRC. The telephone number to call is 0300 200 3500. If you are outside of the UK you will need to phone +44 191 203 7010.

What to do if you lose your National Insurance card?

If you have lost your National Insurance number card you can make an application for a replacement by clicking here. However, the HMRC no longer issue a National Insurance number card, you will receive your National Insurance number on letter headed paper from the HMRC.

What to do if you have never had a National Insurance number?

You can apply for a National Insurance number if you’ve never had one. Form CA5403 has been updated with details about which documents you may need to send to confirm your identity to HMRC if you’re unable to register for a personal tax account.

What to do if you lose your NI number?

Check old payslips, P60s, or any letters about tax, pensions and benefits. Request it by post. Complete an online form on the HMRC site and they’ll post you your NI number again. There’s also a HMRC phone line that can send your number by post if you would rather do that – see the National Insurance Number Helpline for more.