Tax and National Insurance

All workers in the UK pay tax and National Insurance. Before you start working you'll need to apply for a National Insurance number.

What is National Insurance?

National Insurance is paid by people working in the UK. The amount paid is a percentage of how much you earn. For people who are working, the money is deducted by their employers and paid to the Government. National Insurance isn't a tax. The money collected from national insurance contributions is used to pay towards the cost of providing social assistance and welfare. Find out more about National Insurance.

Applying for a National Insurance number

You must apply for a permanent National Insurance number once you're offered a job or, when you start working.  

You need to prove your identity and apply online for a National Insurance number here: Apply for a National Insurance number – GOV.UK (apply-national-insurance-number.service.gov.uk)

National Insurance refunds

You may be entitled to a refund if you've overpaid National Insurance. You can calculate if you have overpaid. Find out more about National Insurance refunds.

Further information

Find out more about National Insurance for people coming to the UK and how to apply for a National Insurance number.

You can also call the National Insurance Registration Helpline on 0800 141 2075 for advice. Lines are open 8am – 6pm, Monday to Friday.

Do I need to pay income tax?

Depending on your earnings, you may need to pay income tax.  The amount of income tax payable depends on a number of factors. You can find out more on the gov.uk website.

P45s and Payslips

P45s and payslips give details about your earnings and deductions, such as National Insurance and income tax. A P45 should be sent to you when you leave employment and you should give this to your new employer. Your employer should provide you with a payslip on a regular basis (eg weekly, monthly) so you can confirm that you have received the correct payment. You should store these documents in a safe place. They contain important information about you and your earnings and you may need them later.