What is a National Insurance Number?

It’s the British equivalent to a social security number.  You must apply for one if you have the right to work in the UK.  It ensures that you pay taxes to the British government. You can also use it if you are claiming benefits or tax credits. 

You can apply for a National Insurance (NI) number by going to an interview at a local JobCentre.  In the interview you will have to prove your identity and that you are working, will start working or are looking for work. Interviews can be set up by calling the National Insurance Allocation service hotline, 0845 600 0643.

After the interview, you will get a card in the mail with your NI Number.  Like your social security number, you want to keep this secret.

Now you’re probably wondering why you should even bother getting a NI Number?  Most jobs will require that you provide one when they are putting you the company payroll.  If you don’t have one, you will be given a temporary number and will be put on an emergency tax rate which can be as high as 35%.  Trust me, there is nothing worse than seeing a large portion of your check taken out because you failed to get a National Insurance Number.  So be sure to get one.

You can find out more here.