09-14-2025, 11:38 AM
If you own a bank account in Nigeria, you’ll soon need a Tax Identification Number (TIN) to continue operating it. This requirement takes effect on January 1, 2026, under the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025.
This change marks a major shift in the country’s tax system and will affect all individuals and businesses with financial accounts in Nigeria.
The good news? Getting a Tax ID is free, simple, and in many cases, you may already have one automatically generated using your Bank Verification Number (BVN) or National Identification Number (NIN).
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Tax ID
Step 1: Check if you already have a Tax ID
a. Visit the official Joint Tax Board (JTB) TIN Verification Portal: https://tin.jtb.gov.ng
b. Click on “Search for TIN.”
c. Enter your BVN and Date of Birth to see if a TIN has already been created for you.
Step 2: Register for a new Tax ID (if you don’t have one)
a. Go to the JTB TIN Registration Portal: https://tin.jtb.gov.ng
b. Select “Register for TIN (Individual).”
c. Fill in your details, including BVN, NIN, and other required information.
d. Submit the form and follow the instructions.
Once approved, you can download and print your Tax ID certificate. The entire process is free of charge.
To avoid service disruptions, it’s best to complete this process well before January 2026.
Why This Matters
From January 2026, you’ll need a valid Tax ID to access services such as:
a. Bank accounts
b. Insurance policies
c. Stockbroking and other investment services
The law also applies to non-residents. Section 6(1) of the Act states:
“A non-resident person that supplies taxable goods or services to any person in Nigeria, or derives income from Nigeria shall register for tax purposes and obtain a Tax ID.”
For businesses that temporarily stop operating, the Act allows suspension or deregistration of their Tax ID, provided they notify the tax authority within 30 days of halting operations.
Key Points to Remember
a. Your NIN (for individuals) and CAC registration number (for companies) will serve as your Tax ID.
b. Everyone who earns taxable income must register, while low-income citizens who are not taxable are protected.
c. Without a Tax ID, you may not be able to operate financial services, and sanctions will apply.
The Nigerian government is tightening tax compliance, and the Tax ID is now essential for financial transactions. Take a few minutes to check your status on the JTB portal and register if needed — it’s free, simple, and will keep your accounts running smoothly in 2026 and beyond.
This change marks a major shift in the country’s tax system and will affect all individuals and businesses with financial accounts in Nigeria.
The good news? Getting a Tax ID is free, simple, and in many cases, you may already have one automatically generated using your Bank Verification Number (BVN) or National Identification Number (NIN).
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Tax ID
Step 1: Check if you already have a Tax ID
a. Visit the official Joint Tax Board (JTB) TIN Verification Portal: https://tin.jtb.gov.ng
b. Click on “Search for TIN.”
c. Enter your BVN and Date of Birth to see if a TIN has already been created for you.
Step 2: Register for a new Tax ID (if you don’t have one)
a. Go to the JTB TIN Registration Portal: https://tin.jtb.gov.ng
b. Select “Register for TIN (Individual).”
c. Fill in your details, including BVN, NIN, and other required information.
d. Submit the form and follow the instructions.
Once approved, you can download and print your Tax ID certificate. The entire process is free of charge.
To avoid service disruptions, it’s best to complete this process well before January 2026.
Why This Matters
From January 2026, you’ll need a valid Tax ID to access services such as:
a. Bank accounts
b. Insurance policies
c. Stockbroking and other investment services
The law also applies to non-residents. Section 6(1) of the Act states:
“A non-resident person that supplies taxable goods or services to any person in Nigeria, or derives income from Nigeria shall register for tax purposes and obtain a Tax ID.”
For businesses that temporarily stop operating, the Act allows suspension or deregistration of their Tax ID, provided they notify the tax authority within 30 days of halting operations.
Key Points to Remember
a. Your NIN (for individuals) and CAC registration number (for companies) will serve as your Tax ID.
b. Everyone who earns taxable income must register, while low-income citizens who are not taxable are protected.
c. Without a Tax ID, you may not be able to operate financial services, and sanctions will apply.
The Nigerian government is tightening tax compliance, and the Tax ID is now essential for financial transactions. Take a few minutes to check your status on the JTB portal and register if needed — it’s free, simple, and will keep your accounts running smoothly in 2026 and beyond.