1. Introduction:
A P45 is a crucial document issued by employers in the United Kingdom when an employee leaves their job. It contains essential information about your employment and tax details, which are vital for your next job or when dealing with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Its significance lies in its role as a record of your earnings and taxes paid during your employment tenure, aiding in the accurate calculation of your tax obligations and entitlements.
This article is designed for former employees in the UK who need guidance on obtaining their P45 from their previous employer.
2. Understanding the Process:
Contacting the employer:
Initiating the request for your P45 typically involves reaching out to your former employer via email or phone. Here’s a sample email template you can use:
Sample Email Template:
Subject: Request for P45
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request my P45, which I require for my tax records and for my new employment.
Please find below the necessary details:
Full Name: [Your Full Name]
Employee ID (if applicable): [Your Employee ID]
Start Date: [Your Start Date at the Company]
End Date: [Your End Date at the Company]
I would appreciate it if you could arrange for the P45 to be sent to me at your earliest convenience. If there are any additional documents or procedures required from my end, please let me know.
Thank you for your assistance.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Requirements:
Your former employer may require specific information to process your request efficiently. Ensure you provide accurate details such as your full name, employee ID (if applicable), and your start and end dates with the company.
Delivery method:
Once your request is processed, your P45 can be delivered via email, post, or collected in person, depending on your preference and your former employer’s policies.
Timeline:
Processing times for P45s may vary depending on your employer’s internal procedures. However, it’s reasonable to expect the process to take a few days to a couple of weeks. Once processed, delivery times will depend on the chosen delivery method.
3. Alternative Solutions:
Employer’s online portal:
Some employers provide online portals where former employees can access and download their P45s directly. If your employer offers this service, log in to the portal using your credentials and navigate to the relevant section to download your P45.
Contacting HMRC:
If your former employer is unresponsive or unable to provide your P45, you can contact HMRC for assistance. It’s advisable to wait a reasonable amount of time for your employer’s response before reaching out to HMRC. You can contact HMRC by phone or through their online services, explaining your situation and providing any relevant details they may require.
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining your P45 from your previous employer is a straightforward process that involves contacting them with the necessary information and requesting the document. However, alternative solutions such as accessing online portals or contacting HMRC exist if you encounter any difficulties with your employer. Ensure you keep your P45 safe as it’s an essential document for your tax and employment records.
FAQs
How do I get a P45 from a previous employer UK?
To obtain your P45 from a previous employer in the UK, you should contact the HR or payroll department of your former workplace. They are responsible for issuing P45 forms to employees upon leaving employment.
How do you write an email asking for P45?
When writing an email requesting your P45, ensure to include your full name, the dates of your employment, and a polite request for them to send your P45 to your current address or provide instructions on how to collect it.
What is the P46 form in the UK?
The P46 form, also known as the “Starter Checklist,” is used by employers in the UK when they take on a new employee who doesn’t have a P45 from a previous job. It collects information about the employee’s tax status, ensuring that the correct tax code is applied to their earnings.