CIS Registration Checklist: Everything You Need

Before You Register

Registering for CIS is straightforward, but having the right information ready makes it faster. Here is what you need.

For Sole Traders

• [ ] Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) — your 10-digit number from HMRC. If you do not have one, register for Self Assessment first (allow 10 working days)
• [ ] National Insurance number — found on payslips, P60s, or HMRC letters
• [ ] Full legal name — exactly as HMRC knows it
• [ ] Date of birth
• [ ] Business address
• [ ] Trading name (if different from your legal name)
• [ ] Type of construction work you carry out
• [ ] Government Gateway login — create one at GOV.UK if you do not have one

For Limited Companies

• [ ] Company UTR — issued when you registered for Corporation Tax
• [ ] Companies House registration number
• [ ] Registered company name
• [ ] Registered office address
• [ ] Director details — names and National Insurance numbers
• [ ] Type of construction work

For Partnerships

• [ ] Partnership UTR
• [ ] Each partner's UTR and National Insurance number
• [ ] Partnership name and address
• [ ] Nominated partner details

Optional: Gross Payment Status

If you want to apply for GPS at the same time, also check:

• [ ] Annual construction turnover exceeds £30,000 (per partner/director if applicable)
• [ ] All tax returns filed on time for the past 12 months
• [ ] All tax payments made on time
• [ ] No outstanding tax debts

How to Register

1. Online — log in to the Government Gateway, navigate to CIS, and follow the registration prompts
2. By phone — call the CIS helpline on 0300 200 3210 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm)

Registration is usually confirmed within a few days. Once confirmed, contractors can verify you at the 20% rate.

After Registration

Once registered, set up Accounted to track your CIS payments and deductions from day one. The earlier you start keeping good records, the easier your Self Assessment and refund claim will be.

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Tick every box before you register. Sign up for Accounted and start your CIS journey with Penny on your side.