How to Get a P60 for the Last 5 Years
Need a P60 from the last 5 years? Whether it’s for a mortgage, a tax return, or a visa application, here’s exactly how to track down P60s going back up to five years — and further.
How far back can you get P60s?
| Route | How far back? |
|---|---|
| Employer payroll portal | Varies — often 2–5 years available digitally |
| Employer directly | Legally required to keep 3 years; many keep longer |
| HMRC Personal Tax Account | Typically 5 years online; further by phone |
| OS Payroll replacement | Over 20 years — genuine stationery for every year |
Step 1 — check your payroll portal
If your employer uses a digital payroll system, P60s for previous years are often available to download from your employee portal. Log in and check under Documents or Year End. This is the fastest option and doesn’t require contacting anyone.
Step 2 — ask your employer
Contact your payroll or HR department and request a duplicate P60 for each year you need. Employers must keep PAYE records for at least 3 years. For years within this window, they should be able to help. Even if you’ve left, your former employer is still obliged to hold the records.
Step 3 — use HMRC’s Personal Tax Account
Sign in at gov.uk/personal-tax-account to see your employment history and tax figures going back typically 5 years. HMRC holds PAYE submissions from all your employers. This information is accepted by most lenders and landlords as an alternative to the physical P60.
For records older than 5 years, call HMRC on 0300 200 3300 — they can go further back by phone.
Step 4 — create replacement P60 documents
Once you have your earnings figures from HMRC or your employer, OS Payroll can produce professional replacement P60 documents for any of the last 5 years — or beyond. We stock genuine HMRC-approved payroll stationery for every tax year going back over 20 years.
→ Create replacement P60 documents
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a P60 from 5 years ago?
Yes — HMRC holds 5 years of employment records online via your Personal Tax Account. For older years, call 0300 200 3300. OS Payroll can produce replacement documents for any year going back over 20 years.
What if my employer from 5 years ago has closed?
HMRC receive PAYE submissions from every employer, so they hold your earnings data even if the company no longer exists. Contact them via your Personal Tax Account or by phone.
Do I need originals or will replacements do?
For most purposes, replacements are accepted exactly as originals. OS Payroll uses genuine HMRC-approved stationery and the document does not say ‘replacement’ or ‘copy’.
How many years of P60s do mortgage lenders require?
Most lenders ask for the last 2–3 years. Some may ask for more if your income is variable or if you’re applying for a larger loan.
This post is for general information only and does not constitute financial or tax advice.