How to Retrieve Your TIN Number in Nigeria: A Comprehensive Guide

The Tax Identification Number (TIN) is a unique identifier assigned to individuals and businesses in Nigeria for tax purposes. Managed by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Joint Tax Board (JTB), the TIN is essential for tax-related transactions, such as filing returns, paying taxes, or conducting business with government agencies. If you’ve lost or forgotten your TIN, retrieving it is straightforward. This article provides a detailed step-by-step guide on how to retrieve your TIN in Nigeria, covering multiple methods and important considerations.

What is a TIN and Why is it Important?

A TIN is a unique number issued to taxpayers (individuals and corporate entities) to track their tax obligations and compliance. In Nigeria, the TIN is linked to your Bank Verification Number (BVN) or National Identification Number (NIN) for individuals, making it easier to retrieve if you have these identifiers. The TIN is required for:

• Filing tax returns with the FIRS.
• Opening or operating a corporate bank account.
• Registering businesses with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
• Accessing government services or contracts.
• Conducting financial transactions that require tax clearance.

If you’ve misplaced your TIN or never received it after registration, you can retrieve it using several methods, as outlined below.

Methods to Retrieve Your TIN in Nigeria

1. Retrieve Your TIN Online via the JTB Portal

The Joint Tax Board (JTB) provides an online TIN verification portal that allows individuals to retrieve their TIN using their BVN, NIN, or registered phone number. Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Visit the JTB TIN verification portal at tin.jtb.gov.ng.
• Step 2: On the homepage, locate the search section and select your preferred identification method from the dropdown menu:
  • Bank Verification Number (BVN)
  • National Identification Number (NIN)
  • Registered phone number
• Step 3: Enter the required details:
  • For BVN or NIN, input the 11-digit number.
  • For phone number, use the number registered with your TIN.
  • Provide your date of birth in the format requested (e.g., DD/MM/YYYY).
• Step 4: Complete the reCAPTCHA verification to confirm you’re not a bot.
• Step 5: Click the “Search” button to retrieve your TIN.
• Step 6: If successful, the portal will display your TIN. You may also have the option to download a digital TIN certificate for your records.

Tips:

• Ensure the BVN, NIN, or phone number you use is the one linked to your TIN registration.
• If you encounter an error (e.g., “records not found”), it may indicate that your TIN hasn’t been validated or linked properly. In this case, proceed to an FIRS office for assistance.

2. Use the FIRS USSD Code

The FIRS offers a convenient USSD service for TIN retrieval, which is ideal if you don’t have access to the internet or prefer a quick solution. Follow these steps:

• Step 1: Dial *829# from the phone number registered with your TIN.
• Step 2: Follow the on-screen prompts to navigate the menu.
• Step 3: Select the option for “Retrieve TIN” or a similar prompt.
• Step 4: Provide any additional details requested, such as your BVN or date of birth.
• Step 5: Your TIN will be sent to you via SMS or displayed on the screen.

Tips:

• This service is free, but standard network charges may apply.
• Ensure you’re using the correct registered phone number, as the USSD code won’t work with an unregistered number.
• If the USSD service doesn’t work, try the online portal or visit an FIRS office.

3. Visit an FIRS Office

If online or USSD methods fail, visiting a Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) office is a reliable option. FIRS offices are located in every state and major city in Nigeria. Here’s what to do:

• Step 1: Locate the nearest FIRS office in your state or region. You can find a list of offices on the FIRS website (www.firs.gov.ng).
• Step 2: Prepare the necessary documents:
  • A valid means of identification (e.g., NIN slip, driver’s license, international passport, or voter’s card).
  • Any documents related to your TIN registration, if available (e.g., tax clearance certificate or previous correspondence).
  • Your BVN or NIN, as these are often linked to your TIN.
• Step 3: At the FIRS office, approach the customer service desk or TIN desk and explain that you need to retrieve your TIN.
• Step 4: Provide your details and documents for verification. The FIRS staff will search their database to retrieve your TIN.
• Step 5: Once retrieved, note down your TIN and request a printed or digital copy of your TIN certificate, if needed.

Tips:

• Arrive early to avoid long queues, as FIRS offices can be busy.
• Be patient, as manual verification may take time, especially if your records are incomplete or require validation.
• If you suspect you were never issued a TIN, the FIRS staff can guide you on how to apply for one.

4. Recover Your TIN via TaxPro Max

The FIRS TaxPro Max platform is an online tax administration system that allows taxpayers to manage their tax obligations, including TIN recovery. Here’s how to use it:

• Step 1: Visit the TaxPro Max portal at taxpromax.firs.gov.ng.
• Step 2: Navigate to the “Taxpayer ID Recovery” section on the homepage.
• Step 3: Select “Individual” as the taxpayer type.
• Step 4: Choose your identification system (BVN or NIN) and enter the corresponding number.
• Step 5: Provide your date of birth and any other required details.
• Step 6: Submit the form to recover your TIN. If successful, your TIN will be displayed or sent to your registered email or phone number.

Tips:

• You may need to create an account on TaxPro Max if you haven’t used it before.
• Ensure your BVN or NIN is linked to your TIN for this method to work.
• If you encounter technical issues, contact the FIRS support team via their website or email.

Important Notes and Tips

• Automatic TIN Assignment: Since 2019, the FIRS has automatically assigned TINs to individuals based on their BVN or NIN. If you have a BVN or NIN, there’s a high chance you already have a TIN, even if you didn’t manually register for one.
• Validation Issues: Some individuals encounter “records not found” errors when using online methods due to incomplete validation during the automatic TIN generation process. Visiting an FIRS office is the best way to resolve this.
• Free Service: Retrieving your TIN is free of charge. Beware of third-party agents or websites charging fees for TIN retrieval, as they may be fraudulent.
• Accurate Details: Ensure the phone number, email, and other details you provide are the same as those used during TIN registration to avoid delays.
• New TIN Application: If you confirm that you don’t have a TIN (e.g., you never registered, and your BVN/NIN isn’t linked to one), you’ll need to apply for a new TIN instead of retrieving one. This can be done online via the JTB portal or at an FIRS office.
• Keep Records: Once you retrieve your TIN, store it securely in a digital or physical format to avoid future retrieval hassles.

What to Do If You Encounter Issues

If you’re unable to retrieve your TIN using the methods above, consider the following:

• Contact FIRS Support: Reach out to the FIRS through their official channels:
  • Website: www.firs.gov.ng
  • Email: nigeriatp@fmiti.gov.ng
  • Phone: Check the FIRS website for updated contact numbers.
• Verify Your BVN/NIN: Ensure your BVN or NIN is active and correctly linked to your identity. You can verify this at a bank (for BVN) or a NIMC office (for NIN).
• Check for Registration Errors: If you registered for a TIN in the past, there may have been errors during the process. An FIRS office can help correct these.
• Seek Professional Help: If the issue persists, consult a tax professional or accountant who can liaise with the FIRS on your behalf.

Conclusion

Retrieving your TIN in Nigeria is a straightforward process, thanks to the digital tools and physical support provided by the FIRS and JTB. Whether you choose to use the online JTB portal, the USSD code, the TaxPro Max platform, or visit an FIRS office, the key is to have your BVN, NIN, or registered phone number ready. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can quickly recover your TIN and continue with your tax-related or business activities without delay.

For additional support or to apply for a new TIN, visit the FIRS website or contact their customer service. Keeping your TIN secure and accessible will save you time and effort in the future, ensuring seamless compliance with Nigeria’s tax system.

Last Updated: May 2, 2025