Adding a Client
What this is
The Add Client page lets you register a new client in your Aligned practice. You enter their basic details - name and NINO - and Aligned creates a record so you can authorise with HMRC and begin filing on their behalf.
What you see on screen
The add client form at /app/clients/add shows:
- Client name - a required text field for the client’s full name
- NINO (National Insurance Number) - a required field in the format AA123456A
Below the form fields you will see a Save button to create the client record.
How to add a client
- Navigate to Clients in the sidebar, then click Add Client
- Enter your client’s full name
- Enter their NINO - this is their National Insurance Number in the format AA123456A (two letters, six digits, one letter)
- Click Save
Your client will appear in your client list with a “Not Authorised” status. You can then proceed to authorise them with HMRC.
Things to know
- NINO format is strict. It must be two letters, six digits, and one letter (e.g., AB123456C). Certain prefixes like BG, GB, NK, KN, TN, NT, and ZZ are not valid.
- You cannot add the same client twice. If a client with the same NINO already exists in your practice, you will see a duplicate error.
- Adding a client does not authorise them. After adding, you still need to complete the HMRC authorisation process before you can file returns.
Common errors
| Error | Cause | How to fix |
|---|---|---|
| ”Invalid NINO format” | NINO does not match AA123456A pattern | Check the format - two letters, six digits, one letter |
| ”Invalid NINO prefix” | NINO starts with a disallowed prefix | Verify the NINO with your client - some prefixes are not valid |
| ”Client already exists” | A client with this NINO is already in your practice | Search your existing client list |
| ”Required field missing” | Name or NINO was left blank | Fill in all required fields |
FAQ
Can I edit a client’s details after adding them?
Yes. Navigate to the client’s detail page from the client list and you can update their information.
What happens if I enter the wrong NINO?
HMRC authorisation will fail if the NINO does not match HMRC’s records. Double-check with your client before proceeding to authorisation.