Pay essentials
Taxation
It is more than likely that you will pay tax and your National Insurance contributions through the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) system.
You won’t have to do anything as your local tax office will provide your employer with a tax code to calculate how much tax and NIC you should be paying. It is deducted from your salary so your payslip reflects your net earnings.
For further information log onto www.hmrc.gov.uk.
National Insurance
National Insurance covers entitlements to benefits including free National Health Service healthcare.
Although administered by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), you should apply for a National Insurance number through your local Jobcentre Plus office, Jobcentre or social security office.
Log onto www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/JCP/index.html to find your local office and make an appointment for an ‘evidence of identity interview’ – don’t forget to take your passport!
Further information about National Insurance numbers and the application process can be found on the NI number section of the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) website www.dwp.gov.uk/lifeevent/benefits/ni_number.asp
National Insurance Registrations Helpline
0845 91 57006 or 0845 91 55670
Social Security
The UK has a comprehensive social security system, funded from general taxation and from National Insurance (NI) payments. When you start working in the UK, you must obtain an NI number.
The number can be obtained from the Department for Work and Pensions - again, more information can be found on www.dwp.gov.uk.
Banking
There are a number of high street retail banks to choose from when you arrive but having recognised how tricky the process can often be, HSBC have set up their Passport Account which has been specifically designed to assist customers relocating to new countries.
This service allows you to open your bank account before you leave home which means that your account will be up and running by the time you arrive in the UK.
Application forms and further information are available or log onto http://www.hsbc.co.uk/1/2/personal/current-accounts/passport for full details.
