If you have lost or forgotten your National Insurance number you should try and locate the number on paperwork such as your tax return, payslip or P60. You can also login to your personal tax account to view, download, print, save or share a letter with your National Insurance number. 

If you do not already have a National Insurance number then you will normally need to apply for one if you are planning to work in the UK, claim benefits, apply for a student loan or pay Class 3 voluntary National Insurance contributions. You can apply for a National Insurance number if you live in the UK and have the right to work.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have launched a new National Insurance number application digital service which allows individuals to apply directly for a National Insurance number. An initial application should be made online and applicants will be advised if they need to book a face-to-face appointment. Applications are currently taking up to 16 weeks to be processed.