How to Obtain Tax Identification Number (TIN) for Both Individuals and Organizations

A Tax Identification Number (TIN) is a unique identifier issued to individuals and various entities, including registered businesses and corporations, for the purpose of tax compliance.

This number is crucial for proper identification, order, and broadening the tax net.

Obtaining a TIN is a mandatory step, as mandated by the Nigeria tax authorities, and is essential for opening bank accounts and ensuring adherence to taxation regulations.

In this article, we will show you the how to obtain Tax Identification Number (TIN) for both individuals and organizations by yourself or by visiting the nearest Federal/State Inland Revenue Service.

Application Process for Tax Identification Number (TIN)

1. Individuals

Individuals can apply for a TIN through the following methods:

• Online Application (Joint Tax Board Website):
  • Visit the Joint Tax Board (JTB) website.
  • Provide either your National Identification Number (NIN) or Bank Verification Number (BVN).
  • Alternatively, visit the nearest Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) office with:
    • Utility bill,
    • Valid government-approved ID, and
    • Passport photograph.
• Verification of Existing TIN:
  • Check online for an existing TIN here; link to the verification page.
  • Verify using your BVN or registered phone number along with your date of birth.

2. Organizations

Organizations, including Limited Liability Companies, Incorporated Trustees, Enterprises, Cooperative Societies, MDAs, and Trade Associations, can obtain a TIN through the following steps:

• Online Registration (Joint Tax Board Website):
  • Visit the JTB website.
  • Provide the Certificate of Incorporation and the BVN or NIN of directors.
  • Submit a valid ID of directors.
• Verification and Approval:
  • The request will undergo verification and approval which normally takes a few minutes.
• TIN Certificate Issuance:
  • Upon approval, the TIN certificate will be sent automatically to the registered email.
  • Alternatively, a hard copy can be collected at the FIRS office.

Important Notice:

Due to system integration between FIRS and JTB, registrations, both for individuals and organizations, completed on the JTB website can also validate their Tax Identification number on the FIRS website.

The application process for obtaining your Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Nigeria, along with the approval and email delivery of the TIN, usually takes only a few minutes, if not instant, for both individuals and organizations.

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Conclusion

Obtaining a Tax Identification Number is a crucial step in ensuring tax compliance for both individuals and organizations.

By following the outlined procedures, individuals and entities can contribute to the proper functioning of the tax system, enhance tax administration, and broaden the tax net, ultimately supporting national development initiatives.