Deposit money bank customers in Nigeria will soon need a Tax Identification Number (TIN) to operate it.
This new requirement comes into effect on January 1, 2026, as mandated by the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025. This represents a major shift in the country’s tax administration and has significant implications for all individuals with a bank account in Nigeria.
However, obtaining a Tax ID is now a straightforward process that can be completed for free. For many people, a Tax ID may have already been generated based on your Bank Verification Number (BVN) or National Identification Number (NIN).
Step-by-Step Guide to follow
The process is designed to be simple and accessible, ensuring you can comply with the new law without a hassle.
Step 1: Verify if you already have a Tax ID
Visit the official Joint Tax Board (JTB) TIN Verification Portal at https://tin.jtb.gov.ng.
Select the “Search for TIN” option.
Enter your BVN and Date of Birth to check if a Tax ID has been automatically assigned to you.
Step 2: Register for a new Tax ID (if you don’t have one)
If your search on the verification portal does not yield a result, you will need to register for a new Tax ID.
Go to the JTB TIN Registration Portal by following this link.
Select the “Register for TIN” option for individuals.
Fill out the required information, including your BVN, NIN, and other personal details.
Submit the form and follow the instructions to get your Tax ID certificate.
The entire process is free of charge. You can download and print your Tax ID certificate once it is issued. It is highly recommended to complete this process well before the January 2026 deadline to ensure uninterrupted access to your banking and financial services.
