HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has issued an urgent alert to anyone with a National Insurance (NI) number, warning that it should only be shared in specific circumstances to avoid the risk of fraud.
The reminder, shared by HMRC on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), highlighted that a stolen NI number could be used to illegally claim benefits, apply for loans, or create false identity records.
HMRC advised: “Download the HMRC app to view your National Insurance number. Remember, only share it when you need to – like when you start a new job.”
What is a National Insurance number?
A National Insurance number is a personal identifier assigned shortly before an individual’s 16th birthday. It remains the same for life and is used to ensure tax contributions, benefits, and pensions are recorded under the correct name.
The format includes two letters, six numbers, and a final letter for example, QQ123456B. It can usually be found on payslips, P60s, or tax-related correspondence.
Why protecting your NI number is important
HMRC has warned that criminals could exploit an NI number for financial gain if it falls into the wrong hands. Potential risks include:
- Making fraudulent benefit claims
- Applying for loans or credit
- Creating false identity records
With reports of identity theft rising in the UK, HMRC has emphasised the importance of keeping this information secure.
When you should share it
According to official guidance, your NI number should only be shared with organisations that need it for legitimate purposes. These include:
- HMRC
- Employers
- The Department for Work and Pensions (or the Department for Social Development in Northern Ireland)
- Local councils (for housing benefit claims)
- Electoral Registration Officers (for voter identity checks)
- The Student Loans Company
- Pension or ISA providers
- Authorised financial service providers
If asked for your NI number by an organisation not on this list, HMRC advises caution.
How to access your NI number safely
The government recommends using the official HMRC app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, to view your NI number securely.
Steps to access include:
- Download the app to your smartphone.
- Sign in with your Government Gateway ID and password (or create one if you don’t have one).
- Once inside, you can view your NI number along with details about tax, benefits, and payments.
If you’ve lost your NI number
For those in the UK, an NI number is usually listed on payslips, P60s, or tax letters. If you cannot find it, GOV.UK provides guidance for recovering a lost number. For those living overseas, separate instructions are available.
Identity fraud on the rise
Cases of financial fraud involving stolen personal details have increased as more services move online. Criminals often combine stolen NI numbers with other data to commit fraud, sometimes leaving victims unaware until debts or official letters begin arriving.
Experts say prevention is key, with HMRC’s warning serving as a timely reminder to treat an NI number with the same care as a bank account number or PIN.
Pie’s perspective: keeping finances safe
While HMRC’s message is aimed at protecting the public from fraud, financial specialists also stress the importance of building good habits around money management.
At Pie, we see this kind of guidance as a crucial part of financial wellbeing. An NI number is more than just digits it’s the key to your tax, benefits, and pension records. Protecting it not only helps prevent fraud but also ensures you stay in control of your money.
By using secure digital tools, checking information only through official apps, and staying alert to scams, people can save themselves significant stress later.
Practical steps for extra protection
- Regularly check your credit report for any unusual activity.
- Never share your NI number via text, email, or unsolicited calls.
- Contact HMRC immediately if you believe your NI number has been compromised.
Simple actions like these can help block fraudsters and give peace of mind.
Final summary
HMRC warns Brits to protect NI numbers.
HMRC’s latest alert makes clear that National Insurance numbers are sensitive and should only be shared when strictly necessary. With identity fraud on the rise, safeguarding this detail is as important as protecting your bank details.
The advice is straightforward: keep your NI number private, use the official HMRC app to access it securely, and take quick action if you suspect it has been misused. Protecting your NI number means protecting your financial future.
