How to Get Your Tax Identification Number (TIN) Online in Nigeria: Complete Step-by-Step Guide [2025]

Anyone who earns an income in Nigeria, whether through paid employment, self-employment, business, or investments, is required to have a Tax Identification Number (TIN) before filing their first tax return. This applies to both individuals and business owners.

What is a Tax Identification Number (TIN)?

A Tax Identification Number (TIN) is a unique number issued to individuals and businesses for tax purposes in Nigeria. It serves as a personal reference for tracking tax records, payments, and compliance with government regulations.

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Who Needs A TIN In Nigeria?

Every individual earning or generating an income in Nigeria - whether from employment, business, investments, or other sources - must obtain a TIN before filing their first tax return. This includes self-employed persons and business owners.

Having a TIN is mandatory for filing your annual tax returns and all other tax-related transactions in Nigeria. It helps the tax authorities properly credit tax payments and track your tax compliance history over the years.

Why You Need A TIN

You need a TIN to open a corporate bank account, register a business, apply for government contracts, or even process certain official documents. Without it, you may face limitations when trying to access government or financial services.

According to Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the TIN is a 13-digit unique identifier assigned to all taxable persons and entities. It contains coded details, such as the issuance year, registry source (National Identification Number (NIN) for individuals or RC Number for companies), state of registration, and a security fragment.

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Joint Tax Board (JTB), officially made TIN mandatory for all eligible taxpayers as part of the country’s effort to improve revenue collection and ensure transparency in the tax system. It was announced as part of tax reforms that began gaining momentum in the late 2010s, and it has since become a key requirement for financial transactions.

Types of TIN registration

The TIN registration is for individuals and businesses. For individuals, the TIN is automatically linked to their NIN, which is issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). For businesses, the TIN is tied directly to the RC Number issued by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

Similarly, for cooperatives, partnerships, professional bodies, and associations, the TIN is connected to their respective recognised registries. This ensures transparent identification of corporate entities for tax and compliance purposes without the need for additional documentation.

How to Get Your TIN Online In Nigeria [Website Step-by-Step Guide]

To get your Tax Identification Number (TIN) on the website, follow these steps:

For Individuals

Step 1: Visit the JTB TIN Portal

Click on "Individual TIN"

Step 2. Provide the required details, including:

- Bank Verification Number (BVN): Ensure you have your 11-digit BVN ready.

- Date of Birth: Enter your date of birth in the required format.

- First Name and Last Name (Surname): Enter your full name as it appears on your identification documents.

Step 3: Verify that you’re not a robot, then click the Search button to submit your application. If you already have a TIN, the system will notify you after you click Search. If not, then move to the next step.

Step 4. Submit your application and wait for approval, which typically takes 24-48 hours. Once approved, your TIN certificate will be sent to your registered email

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For Organizations/Companies

Step 1. Visit the JTB TIN portal and click on Business TIN

Step 2. Provide the required details, including:

Organization Type: Select your business type (e.g., Sole Proprietorship, Partnership).

Registration Number: Enter your 7-digit registration number.

Registered Name: Enter your business name as it appears on your registration documents.

Step 3. Upload the required documents and other details as prompted.

Step 4. Submit your application and wait for approval

How to Get Your TIN via Mobile App

You can also obtain your TIN easily through the Joint Tax Board (JTB) mobile app. To do this, download the JTB app from the Google Play Store; it’s currently available only on Android devices. Search for Joint tax app.

For Individuals

Once installed, open the app and you’ll see several options on the homepage, such as:

• Non-Ind TIN Reg

• Individual TIN Reg

• Nearest Tax Offices

• Message Board

• Tax Authority Contacts

• Important Tax Dates

• Tax Laws

• TIN Verification

To register for your personal TIN, tap on “Individual TIN Registration.” The app will prompt you to enter some basic information, including your Bank Verification Number (BVN), date of birth, first name, and last name. After entering these details, click on Search to proceed.

Next, a more detailed registration form will appear, requesting additional information such as your National Identification Number (NIN), BVN, email address, and other personal details. Take your time to fill out this form carefully, ensuring that all the information matches your official records, especially your BVN and NIN, to avoid processing delays.

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When you’re done, click on Submit. You’ll receive an immediate confirmation message or email indicating that your application has been received. After submission, your details will be verified, and within 24-48 hours, your Tax Identification Number (TIN) will be generated and sent directly to your registered email address.

For Organizations/Companies

If you’re registering on behalf of a business or company, you can also obtain your organization’s TIN directly from the JTB mobile app. From the app’s main menu, select “Non-Ind TIN Reg.” You’ll be prompted to provide details such as:

• Organization type

• Registration number

• Registered name

Under Organization Type, click the drop-down menu to select the category that best describes your business. The available options include Incorporated Trustee, Limited by Guarantee, Partnership, Private Limited Company, and Sole Proprietorship, among others.

Next, provide your contact email address, phone number, and registered business address as stated on your CAC documents. Double-check that all details are accurate and consistent before submitting.

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Once you click Submit, the Joint Tax Board (JTB) will review and verify your application. After successful validation, your organization’s Tax Identification Number (TIN) will be processed and sent directly to the contact email you provided, typically within 24-48 hours.

How To Get Your TIN With USSD Code

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has officially launched its USSD code, *829#, allowing taxpayers to easily access key tax services. Through the platform, users can retrieve their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), verify their Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC), view tax types and rates, locate the nearest tax office, and make general tax-related enquiries.

This initiative is designed to enhance accessibility and improve service delivery for taxpayers across Nigeria. Simply dial *829# on any network and follow the prompts. The service costs ₦100.

How to Get Your TIN In-Person

If you would rather do it in person, visit your nearest FIRS or State IRS tax office with the required documents.

Required Documents for TIN Registration

Individuals

Your NIN Slip or National ID Card

Utility Bill (for address verification)

One passport photograph

When you arrive at the office with the above documents, you will then be required to:

Step 1: Fill a short form and request an Individual TIN (This is free).

Step 2: They’ll process it and give you a TIN printout (sometimes the same day, sometimes it might take a few days).

Step 3: Take that TIN to your bank, update your account.

For Organizations/Companies

If you run a registered business or company, you also need a Business TIN (different from your personal one). Your CAC certificate will be required.

What To Do If You Don't Have BVN or NIN

To get a BVN or NIN, you must enroll for it, as you cannot use the services without one. For a BVN, visit any bank branch to fill out an enrollment form and provide biometric data like fingerprints and a photo. To get a NIN, you must go to a National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) office for enrollment. 

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Common Issues and Troubleshooting

What To Do If BVN/NIN Doesn't Match?

If your Bank Verification Number (BVN) and National Identification Number (NIN) details don’t match, contact your bank or the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to correct the discrepancies. Even minor differences in your name, date of birth, or other personal details can cause verification failure. You may be required to provide a court affidavit and a valid government-issued ID to complete the correction process.

Possible Portal Errors

Call: 08039187289

Email: contactus@jtb.gov.ng

Office Address: 26 Sokode Street, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja F.C.T.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is TIN registration free?

Yes, it is completely free. Beware of agents charging fees.

How long is TIN valid?

TINs in Nigeria are issued once and are not renewable. However, individuals or businesses may need to update their TIN information if there are any changes in their personal or business details.

Can I apply for TIN without NIN?

You will need your NIN (individuals) or CAC registration documents (companies) to process your Tax ID.

What happens if I lose my TIN?

You can use the USSD code *773722# using your registered phone number to retrieve your TIN. You can also use your BVN or NIN if you dial the code using a different phone number.

Can foreigners get TIN in Nigeria?

Yes, if they do business in Nigeria. A non-resident company supplying goods or services to Nigerian customers must register for TIN. However, those earning only passive income (dividends, interest, royalties, rent) may not need to register, though they must provide relevant information. A company registered abroad but effectively managed or controlled in Nigeria is treated as resident and must comply.

What is the difference between a TIN and a Tax Clearance Certificate?

A TIN is for tax identification; a tax clearance certificate certifies that taxes have been paid.

Do I need different TINs for personal and business?

If your business is a limited liability company (LTD or PLC), then yes, your company needs its own Business TIN, and you still need a separate Personal TIN for your personal taxes and bank accounts. But if you run a business name or sole proprietorship, you and your business are treated as one entity, so you can use your Personal TIN for both personal and business purposes.

How to verify my TIN?

Go to the FIRS website and navigate to the Services section. Select TIN Verification and choose Tax Identification Number from the search criteria dropdown menu. Enter your TIN (FIRS or JTB) in the search field, then click Search to verify your details.