In a significant move to streamline tax administration, Nigerian authorities have launched a dedicated portal enabling citizens to retrieve their unique Tax Identification Number (Tax ID). This initiative comes ahead of the implementation of the country's new tax legislation, which takes effect on January 1, 2026.
New Portal Launched for Tax ID Retrieval
The Joint Revenue Board (JRB) and the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) have officially activated the Nigerian Tax ID Portal. This online platform is designed to help all taxpayers, both individuals and corporate entities, obtain their system-generated 13-digit Tax ID with ease. The new number will replace any previously issued Tax Identification Numbers.
For individuals, this crucial tax identifier is directly linked to their National Identification Number (NIN). For businesses and organisations, the link is established through their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration number. The JRB and NRS have clarified that the Tax ID is strictly for tax administration purposes and will not be used to deduct funds from bank accounts or close them due to non-compliance.
Step-by-Step Guide to Retrieve Your Individual Tax ID
If you are an individual taxpayer, follow these straightforward steps to get your number:
- Visit the official portal at www.taxid.jrb.gov.ng or www.taxid.nrs.gov.ng.
- Click on the “Individual” tab located on the homepage.
- Select “National Identification Number (NIN)” as your retrieval method and enter your 11-digit NIN.
- Click the “Retrieve Tax ID” button.
- Enter your First Name, Last Name, and Date of Birth exactly as they are recorded in the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database.
- Click “Continue.”
- Your unique 13-digit Tax ID will be displayed on the screen.
Process for Businesses and Organisations
Corporate entities can retrieve their Tax ID by:
- Clicking the “Corporate” tab on the portal.
- Selecting their specific organisation type.
- Entering their valid CAC registration number.
- Clicking “Retrieve Tax ID” to view their 13-digit number.
Why Your Tax ID is Crucial
Authorities are urging all taxpayers to retrieve their Tax IDs promptly to avoid any delays or complications once the new tax law becomes operational. The benefits of having this unified identifier include simplified access to all tax-related services and nationwide accessibility.
Correctly using your Tax ID ensures smooth tax administration, prevents errors in filings, and allows Nigerians to meet their civic obligations efficiently. Taxpayers are also advised to confirm their Tax ID details carefully before filing any returns.
To further aid compliance, officials recommend using simple and legal transaction descriptions for bank transfers to avoid unnecessary taxation. Examples include “Gift / Family support” for personal gifts, “Personal transfer / Savings” for moving your own money, and specific descriptions like “Payment for two cartons of Indomie” for business sales.
Related Update on Electronic Transfers
In a related development tied to the updated Tax Act, banks across Nigeria will begin applying a N50 stamp duty, known as the Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL), on electronic transfers of N10,000 and above starting January 1, 2026. This one-off charge applies to transfers into both personal and business accounts.
The Nigerian Tax ID Portal is now live and accessible to all taxpayers nationwide. For further assistance, individuals and businesses can visit the portal or contact their nearest tax office.
