A business cannot shy away from tax-related discussions as it is an integral part of a business that has to be taken into consideration at all times.  In order to keep records of the business tax payments with the Inland Revenue Service, a business is expected to have a Tax Identification Number (TIN) that serves as the account under which all tax transactions performed by a business are recorded.

A tax identification number (TIN) is a unique number used to identify an individual, business, or other entity in tax returns and other documents filed with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

Generally, both individuals and businesses should have a Tax Identification Number, for this context, we are going to highlight the importance of a Tax Identification Number to a company.

The Tax Identification Number can be used for a number of things apart from the fact that it is mandatory for businesses to have Tax Identification Numbers. The Tax Identification Number for businesses is important for the following reasons;

Also read Small Business Taxes – Everything you need to know.

TIN gives you access to Government loans;

Tax identification number TIN gives you access to Government loans, banks and other financial institutions. It also helps you get access to microfinance institutions and the capital market.

It is needed to open a corporate bank account;

You will need a Tax Identification Number (TIN) to open a corporate bank account. The bank will not open an account without one and it is also required for the operation of your business, so you should keep track of your TINs and ensure they are valid.

It is a requirement for the registration of motor vehicles;

Tax Identification Number TIN is a requirement for the registration of motor vehicles. If you own a car, you need to get your Tax Identification Number TIN registered before you can register your vehicle with the appropriate authorities.

Foreign exchange;

Tax Identification Number TIN is a must for foreign exchange transactions. It is a unique number assigned by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), which can be used to identify your business and its owners. The TIN is also required for importation of goods into Nigeria, as well as other taxes like VAT or Value Added Tax (VAT).

Application for certificate of occupancy;

The Tax Identification Number is required for a certificate of occupancy. It is also important to note that the TIN will be used in the business application and must be correctly filled out in order for your company to continue with its operations.

Tax Identification number (TIN) is a unique alphanumeric code that identifies an individual person, entity or organization within Nigeria’s tax administration system. The TIN serves as an identifier used by government agencies and businesses alike when filing taxes or doing business activities within Nigeria’s borders.

Application for trade licenses, Import and export licenses;

You need to have the Tax Identification Number TIN for applications for trade licenses, import and export licenses. The tax identification number is also useful in establishing business relationships with government agencies such as Customs, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS).

You can use it to apply for any license that requires you to submit your business details along with other documents like bank statements and inventory reports.

It is useful for getting tax clearance, tax allowance, tax waivers, and tax incentives.

It is important to have your Tax Identification Number in order to get a tax clearance certificate which will serve as evidence of tax payment.

Conclusion

We have explained in detail what a Tax Identification Number (TIN) is, and why it is important. For a step-by-step guide on how to apply for your tax identification number tin in Nigeria, read this post.