How to Request a Copy of a Corporation Tax UTR: 7 Simple Steps to Recover It Fast

If you’re searching for how to request a copy of a Corporation Tax UTR, you’re in the right place. Every year, thousands of company directors misplace their UTR number or need a replacement urgently. Whether you’re filing a tax return, appointing a new accountant, or responding to HMRC, having your Corporation Tax Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) is essential.

The good news? Getting a replacement is straightforward when you follow the correct process.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to request a copy of your Corporation Tax UTR, what information you’ll need, who qualifies, and how long it takes to receive it.

Understanding What a Corporation Tax UTR Is

Before requesting a replacement, it helps to understand what this number represents.

What the Corporation Tax UTR Number Means

A Corporation Tax UTR is a unique 10-digit number issued by HMRC when your limited company registers for Corporation Tax. It acts as your company’s official tax identifier.

Think of it like a tax ID card for your business. HMRC uses it to track:

• Corporation Tax returns (CT600)

• Tax payments

• Official correspondence

• Penalties or refunds

Every limited company registered in the UK receives one.

Why HMRC Issues a UTR to Limited Companies

Once your company is incorporated with Companies House, HMRC automatically registers it for Corporation Tax. Shortly after incorporation, HMRC sends your UTR by post to your company’s registered office address.

It is never emailed. This is done to protect sensitive information.

When You’ll Be Asked for Your UTR

You’ll need your UTR when:

• Filing your annual Corporation Tax Return

• Appointing an accountant

• Registering for HMRC online services

• Speaking to HMRC about your company

Without it, progress can stall quickly.

Why You May Need to Request a copy of a Corporation Tax UTR

There are several common reasons directors search for a copy of a Corporation Tax UTR.

Lost or Misplaced HMRC Letter

It’s surprisingly common. The original letter may have been:

• Sent to an old address

• Misfiled

• Thrown away accidentally

If you can’t locate it, requesting a replacement is the safest option.

Appointing a New Accountant

Your accountant will request your UTR before acting on your behalf. Without it, they cannot file returns or access HMRC systems.

Filing Your Corporation Tax Return (CT600)

If your filing deadline is approaching and you can’t find your UTR, time is critical. Requesting a replacement early avoids late filing penalties.

Company Records and Compliance Checks

Sometimes directors simply want to ensure their company records are complete and up to date.

Who Is Eligible to Request a Replacement UTR?

Not every company qualifies for the service.

Active Companies on the Companies House Register

You can request a copy if your company is:

• Active

• Registered with Companies House

• Not dissolved or struck off

The service verifies your company details automatically.

Companies That Cannot Use This Service

You cannot request a copy if your company has been:

• Officially dissolved

• Struck off the Companies House register

• Converted into a different type of organisation

• Very recently incorporated (your original UTR should arrive shortly)

What You Need Before You Start

Preparation saves time. Before starting your request, make sure you have the following details exactly as they appear on Companies House.

Company Registration Number (CRN)

Your CRN is either:

• 8 digits
  OR

• 2 letters followed by 6 digits

You can verify your company details here:
https://www.gov.uk/get-information-about-a-company

Accuracy matters. Even a small error can delay the process.

Registered Company Name

Enter your company name exactly as listed, including:

• LIMITED or LTD

• Spacing

• Punctuation

It must match the Companies House register precisely.

Registered Office Address

Your replacement UTR will be posted to the registered office address on record. HMRC does this for security reasons.

If your address is outdated, update it with Companies House first.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Request a copy of a Corporation Tax UTR

Here’s the exact process.

Step 1: Visit the Official GOV.UK Page

Go to the official HMRC service page for requesting a copy of your Corporation Tax UTR.

Always use GOV.UK — never use third-party websites for sensitive tax information.

Step 2: Enter Your Company Details Exactly

You’ll be prompted to enter:

• Company Registration Number (CRN)

• Registered company name

Ensure both match the Companies House register exactly.

Double-check before submitting.

Step 3: Submit and Wait for Postal Delivery

Once submitted:

• HMRC processes your request

• The UTR is sent by post

• It is delivered to your registered office address

Delivery usually takes 15 working days.

Where Else You Might Find Your Corporation Tax UTR

Previous HMRC Letters

Look for:

• Corporation Tax payment reminders

• Filing notices

• Penalty letters

Your UTR is usually displayed at the top.

Earlier Corporation Tax Returns

If you’ve filed before, your UTR will appear on previous CT600 returns.

Your accountant may also have it on file.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Requesting a UTR

Avoid these common issues:

• Entering incorrect company names

• Using an outdated registered office address

• Applying for a dissolved company

• Expecting the UTR by email

Remember: HMRC always sends it by post for security reasons.

Getting Your UTR Is Step One — Staying Compliant Is What Really Matters

Requesting a copy of your Corporation Tax UTR is straightforward. But that’s only one small part of running a compliant limited company.

What happens next?

• Is your Corporation Tax registration correct?

• Are your filing deadlines approaching?

• Have you submitted your CT600 accurately?

• Are you paying the right amount of tax — not too much, not too little?

This is where professional accounting support makes the difference.

At Spondoo, we don’t just help you find your UTR — we take responsibility for your company’s entire tax compliance. From Corporation Tax returns and annual accounts to Companies House filings and HMRC correspondence, we handle it properly and proactively.

Book a consultation with our team today and let’s take care of your company’s tax responsibilities properly.