How to get your Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Nigeria easily on your smartphone in 2024 to avoid trouble

TIN stands for Tax Identification Number. In Nigeria, it is a unique number assigned to individuals and businesses by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). As the name indicates, it exists as a means of identifying taxpayers in the country, as well as to track their tax compliance.

While the FIRS is the federal government agency responsible for implementing tax laws and regulations, including assessing and collecting tax, it is another agency called the Joint Tax Board (JTB) that is responsible for formulating policy guidance, recommendations, coordination, of the activities of the FIRS and state revenue agencies.

Why you should get your Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Nigeria right away

In one sentence, the federal government says every individual person and business operating in Nigeria must have a Tax Identification Number, and they have attached it as a condition for facilitating financial transactions and accessing various government services. In other words, without a Tax Identification Number, living in Nigeria and doing business in Nigeria can get very frustrating for you. Here are key reasons why you should get your Tax Identification Number right away.

• Tax Compliance: A TIN is essential for tax compliance in Nigeria. It serves as a unique identifier that links all your tax-related information, making it easier for the JTB and FIRS to track your tax obligations.
• Financial Transactions: Many financial transactions in Nigeria, such as opening bank accounts, obtaining loans, and investing, require a Tax Identification Number. It helps financial institutions verify your identity and assess your financial standing.
• Access to Government Services: Some government services may require a TIN as proof of identity or to access certain benefits.
• Business Registration: Businesses in Nigeria need a TIN to register with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and conduct their operations legally.
• Legal Requirements: In some cases, a Tax Identification Number may be a legal requirement for specific activities or transactions.

Where to get your Tax Identification Number in Nigeria

Once upon a time, getting a Tax Identification Number in Nigeria was a tedious manual process that required you carrying documents around and physically going to a tax office. Thanks to digital technology, that is no longer the case. You can now register and verify your Tax Identification Number online using the Joint Tax Board website or mobile apps (Android and iPhone).

So, whether you are using a TECNO, itel, Xiaomi, Redmi, or Samsung smartphone or you use an iPhone, you can access all Tax identification Number services on your mobile phone. The last section of this article provides you with the download links for the apps.

Documents you need to apply for your TIN in Nigeria

To apply for your Tax Identification Number in Nigeria, you will need specific documents, depending on whether you are an individual, a registered business, or an incorporated company:

1. For Individuals:
   • A valid identification (driver’s licence, national ID card, or passport)
   • A recent utility bill
   • A completed Tax Identification Number application form
2. For Registered Businesses:
   • Business registration certificate
   • Utility bill
   • Completed TIN application form
3. For Incorporated Companies:
   • Certificate of incorporation
   • Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMART)
   • Particulars of directors and share capital statement

It is important to ensure all documentation is accurate, as this will streamline the process of obtaining your TIN.

How to apply for Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Nigeria

For Individuals:

Obtaining a Tax Identification Number in Nigeria for individuals has been made easier with the availability of online platforms, so there is nothing to fear. Let’s walk you through the steps below:

1. Visit the Joint Tax Board (JTB) Website or download and install the JTB app on your phone: Fill out the Tax Identification Number application form.
2. Link your BVN or NIN: Use your Bank Verification Number (BVN) or National Identification Number (NIN) for the application.
3. Upload documents: Provide valid identification and a recent utility bill.
4. Submit application: Once the form is complete and documents are uploaded, submit the application.
5. Verification: After submission, your application will be reviewed, and you’ll receive notification when your TIN is issued.

If you already have a BVN or NIN, you can verify if you have been automatically assigned a Tax Identification Number by using the JTB’s website or mobile app.

For Businesses:

Businesses in Nigeria can also apply for a Tax Identification Number online. The steps are slightly different from those for individuals:

1. Fill in company information: Go to the JTB website or download and install the mobile app. Enter your business name, registration number, and address on the application form.
2. Upload required documents: Business registration certificate, memorandum and articles of association, particulars of directors, and a utility bill.
3. Submit application: The FIRS will review your documents and issue the Tax Identification Number upon approval.

While the process for businesses typically takes about 10 business days, delays do occur.

How to verify your TIN

Once you’ve applied, it is important that you verify your Tax Identification Number to ensure it is active and valid. You can do this on the Joint Tax Board website or mobile app:

1. Enter your Tax Identification Number and email address.
2. Complete the security check.
3. Click “Validate” to complete the verification process. If successful, a confirmation message will be displayed, and you will receive an email with instructions to finalise your registration. Once validated, your TIN will be fully operational, allowing you to use it for various transactions.

Download the Joint Tax Board app for Android and iPhone

You can register for your Tax Identification Number and also verify it on the official JTB website or on their mobile app. You can also use the app to find the nearest tax offices to you, check tax laws, and contact tax authorities. The app is available for both Android devices (TECNO, itel, Infinix, Xiaomi, Redmi, Samsung, etc) and iPhones. Download the JTB app for Android. Download the JTB app for iPhone.

Author: Guest Contributor

This article is a guest contribution sent in for publishing. It is not the work of our in-house staff or editorial team.