NIM39105 - National Insurance Numbers (NINOs): Format and Security: What is a NINO?

The NINO is an administrative number primarily for the use of HMRC and DWP. Many people have the same or similar identity details so having a unique NINO means that any NICs they pay or credits they are awarded can be correctly recorded on their NI account. It is used by DWP to check the NI record when that person makes a claim to contributory state benefit and to record information about benefit claims on the NIRS account.

An individual is given one NINO - once it has been allocated they keep the same number forever.

A NINO can only be allocated after all the appropriate checks have been completed and evidence of identity has been verified. (This text has been withheld because of exemptions in the Freedom of Information Act 2000)

(This text has been withheld because of exemptions in the Freedom of Information Act 2000)

Following improvements to the procedures, including fastpaths, it is not normally necessary to make level 2 or level 3 allocations, even when there is no face to face interview.