Get a National Insurance Number

what is a NI number (National Insurance Number) ?

Your NI number

Your National Insurance Number is a reference number for all the benefits and tax credits system. It's also used for:

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Tax and National Insurance

making tax and National Insurance deductions through Pay As You Earn (PAYE).

Your Pension

your pension: you need a NI number to get your pension when you get old

Jobseeker's Allowance

claiming Jobseeker's Allowance.

Housing Benefit

claiming Housing Benefit.

Apply for your NI as soon as possible

It can take you some weeks or months to get a number so it is important to apply as soon as possible.

N.I. number: an interview at Jobcentre Plus office

Then you have to attend another interview at the Jobcentre Plus office near to your home. The telephone agent will give you a date. It is important that you write this date in your diary

You will be interviewed in person (face to face)

The face to face interview takes half an hour. You need to take with you:-

Who you are

Proof of your identity and nationality: a Passport or other documentary evidence of nationality.

Your immigration status

Proof of your immigration status. A passport or a letter from the Home Office which shows your immigration status.

You must be looking for work

Proof that you are looking for work. For example, letters from employers saying 'sorry no job'; or application forms for jobs

You must have an address

Proof of your address. For example a telephone bill showing your name and address or other bills and letters.

You can be refused an NI number

You can be refused if you don't bring proof with you and so have to wait longer to get a job.

A decision should be given within a month

You will have a decision about your NI number within 30 days from the date of interview.