Where to find your PAYE Reference Number

What is an Employers PAYE Reference Number?

An employer PAYE reference number is given to every business that registers with HMRC as an employer. It is a unique set of letters and numbers used by HMRC to identify your firm.

The reference number consists of two parts: a three-digit HMRC office number, and a reference number unique to your business. Usually it looks something like 123/A56789 or 123/AB56789, with some exceptions.

You will need your employer PAYE reference number for many different reasons. You'll need it to complete your end-of-year PAYE Returns, and HMRC needs it for other various tasks. It is also likely that your employees will ask you for your PAYE reference number at some point, as they'll need it when applying for tax credits, and student loans. You may also be required to include it on payslips.

Safe to say, it is another one of those numbers from HMRC which is essential to the smooth running of your company.

Where can I find my PAYE Reference Number?

When you register as an employer, HMRC send an employer's welcome pack which will include your PAYE reference number. If you lose this, you will also be able to find it on letter or emails about PAYE from HMRC. It also appears on any P45s or P60s for previous or current employees.

It is also advisable to put you Employer PAYE Reference Number on employee payslips for easier access.

If The Accountancy Cloud are running your payroll, we will also have this information on hand for you.