LONDON EDITIONINDEPENDENT CITY PORTAL01 SEPTEMBER 2026
RIGHT NOWThis week in LondonPlan your journeyCost of livingBuild a UK CV

JOBS & CAREERS

National Insurance numbers: a practical work guide

A National Insurance number keeps your tax and contribution record linked to you.

01

Check whether you have one

It may appear on a payslip, tax document or personal tax account. Do not apply for a second number.

02

You can start work

You may begin work before receiving a number if you can prove your right to work in the UK.

03

Use official channels

Apply or retrieve your number through GOV.UK and keep it private from unnecessary requests.