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.
There are three levels of verification which indicate the amount
and quality of evidence produced when an application for a NINO is
made.
- Level 1 - the identity of the customer has been fully established at the "Evidence of Identity" interview.
- Level 2 - in a benefit inspired case a NINO may be issued if benefit is due to be paid if:
- the customer has attended an "Evidence of Identity" interview
- they have provided the necessary evidence of identity, and it is confirmed that there is no existing NINO, but
- not all the checks have been completed.
- Level 3 - allocation is made without an "Evidence of Identity" interview. They may only be authorised by The Pension Service Tyneview Park, Disability Benefit Centres and Veterans Agency under particular circumstances and Child Benefit Office for the allocation of Child Reference Numbers see NIM39305.
A level 2 NINO must be upgraded within 6 weeks.
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.
