Why am I being asked to provide an ERN?

An Employers Reference Number (ERN) is given to every business that registers with HM Revenue and Customs as an employer who intends to pay staff using PAYE.

Insurers require your ERN number as if there is an Employers’ Liability claim it helps the claimant trace the insurance company that provided insurance at the time, they suffered an injury, or the start of a long-term illness. It is a unique set of letters and numbers used by the taxman and others to identify your firm.

Where can I find my ERN?

ERNs will begin with three numbers (representing the tax office whose catchment area the employer falls into) followed by a forward slash and then a combination of letters and numbers. It is often referred to on tax forms as an employer PAYE reference.