Only one number is allocated to you and you keep that same number all your life. It is unique to you and ensures we correctly record NI contributions or credits to your NI account. You will need these contributions and credits when you come to claim benefit, whether it is for a short while, like Incapacity Benefit or long term, such as your Retirement Pension.

• Your National Insurance (NI) Number is personal to you.
• It is your account number allocated to you for you to use in all your dealings with Inland Revenue and the Department for Work and Pensions.
• It is not proof of your identity.
• It looks something like this : AB123456C
• This National Insurance number is only an example and should not be used as your own number.

Your NI number will also be used by :

• Employers, for the deduction of tax and NI contributions.
• Jobcentre Plus, to administer Jobseeker’s Allowance. Local Authorities, to administer Housing Benefit.
• HM Customs and Excise to administer VAT Registration applications.
  You must not let anyone else use your number.

You should quote it on letters or forms you send to the Inland Revenue, DWP the Social Security Agency. Keep your number safe and do not disclose it to anyone who does not need it. Remember, its purpose is only to record NI contributions and credits you have paid or are entitled to; and to help decide how much benefit you are entitled to.

Tell your nearest Social Security office or NI Contributions office at once if there is a change in your name, address or title so your NI account can be kept up to date. We may need to contact you if you need to pay more contributions in a particular year to make that year count for pension purposes or when you come to claim benefits like Retirement Pension.