We may need you to provide proof of trading in order to verify that your business is active and trading. You can provide one or more of the following options.
Business and tax records
Business and tax records
A copy of your VAT registration
The certificate should be current and issued by HMRC.
You can verify your details using the Government VAT Checker.
Your latest company accounts or tax return
These should be for your most recent financial year.
They should confirm your business name, address and financial activity.
Your most recent HMRC Self-Assessment tax return
The return should be for the most recent tax year.
It should confirm your trading name and your 10-digit UTR number.
Self-Assessment registration (including your UTR)
The letter should be dated within the last 12 months.
It should confirm your 10-digit UTR number and your trading name (if you have one).
A business or employment contract
The contract should be signed and dated within the last six months (unless it shows the contract is still ongoing).
The work described should match your business activity.
Financial and utility documents
Financial and utility documents
A bank statement (not a Mettle statement)
The statement should be dated within the last six months and issued by another bank.
It should show financial activity, like payments in or out, that reflects your business type.
A utility bill in your trading name
The bill should be dated within the last six months.
It should be for business operational needs (e.g. electricity, water, or gas) and match your trading address.
Please note: We can't accept mobile phone bills or personal council tax statements.
An invoice for work completed
The invoice should be dated within the last six months.
It should be issued in your trading name or your full name.
It needs to include a description of the goods or services provided.
A business rates bill
The letter should be issued by a local authority within the last 12 months.
It should be a business rates bill specifically, rather than personal council tax.
Professional and online proof
Professional and online proof
Membership of a regulatory or professional body
The membership should be current and active.
The body should be one of the recognised professional associations.
Information on your website or social media account
The website or profile should be live and clearly show the products or services you offer.
The contact details listed should match your Mettle application.
An in-date public liability or indemnity insurance policy
The policy should confirm your trading name.
It should show that your cover is currently active.
An email from a solicitor or accountant
The email should come directly from the firm’s professional email address.
The author should be a member of a recognised regulatory body.
Don't have any of these documents yet?
If your business is brand new and you’re just getting set up, we may still be able to proceed with your application.