Nigeria’s tax system is undergoing a major transformation, and every taxpayer in the country needs to be prepared.
- What is Changing on January 1, 2026?
- Why is Nigeria Introducing the New Tax ID?
- What Every Nigerian Must Do Before January 1, 2026
- What Happens if You Don’t Get Your Tax ID?
- How to Retrieve Your Tax ID: Quick Overview
- Key Benefits of the New Tax ID System
- Common Concerns Addressed
- Important Dates to Remember
- Where to Get Help
Starting January 1, 2026, the Joint Revenue Board (JRB) and the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) will officially launch the new Nigerian Tax ID Portal, replacing the old Tax Identification Number (TIN) system with a modernized, unified digital platform.
Okay News brings you everything you need to know about this critical change, including what you must do before the deadline and how to ensure you’re fully compliant with Nigeria’s new tax identification system.
What is Changing on January 1, 2026?
The Nigerian tax authorities have announced that all previously issued Tax Identification Numbers (TINs) will be replaced with a new Tax Identification (Tax ID) system. This is part of a broader effort to modernize tax administration, simplify compliance, and create a unified identification framework for all taxpayers across Nigeria.
Key Changes:
Old TIN system ends on December 31, 2025
New Tax ID system begins on January 1, 2026
All taxpayers must transition to the new system
Tax ID is linked to NIN for individuals
Tax ID is linked to CAC number for businesses
Why is Nigeria Introducing the New Tax ID?
The Nigerian government has introduced this reform to address several challenges in the current tax administration system:
1. Unified Tax Identification
Previously, different tax authorities issued different TINs, creating confusion and duplication. The new Tax ID provides one unique identifier for all tax purposes nationwide.
2. Digital Modernization
The new system is entirely digital, allowing taxpayers to retrieve their Tax ID online from anywhere in Nigeria, eliminating the need to visit tax offices physically.
3. Improved Compliance
By linking Tax IDs to National Identification Numbers (NIN) for individuals and Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) numbers for businesses, the system reduces identity fraud and ensures accurate taxpayer records.
4. Simplified Tax Services
With a unified Tax ID, accessing tax-related services such as filing returns, making payments, and obtaining tax clearance certificates becomes easier and faster.
5. Better Enforcement
The integrated system allows tax authorities to track compliance more effectively while protecting taxpayers’ rights and data.
What Every Nigerian Must Do Before January 1, 2026
For Individuals:
Step 1: Ensure Your NIN is Active
Your Tax ID will be automatically generated based on your 11-digit National Identification Number (NIN). If you don’t have a NIN or your NIN is inactive, visit the nearest National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) enrollment center immediately.
Step 2: Verify Your NIMC Details
Make sure your personal details as captured by NIMC (First Name, Last Name, and Date of Birth) are accurate. Any mismatch will prevent you from retrieving your Tax ID.
Step 3: Prepare to Retrieve Your Tax ID
From January 1, 2026, visit www.taxid.jrb.gov.ng or www.taxid.nrs.gov.ng to retrieve your 13-digit Tax ID using your NIN.
For Businesses and Organizations:
Step 1: Verify Your CAC Registration
Ensure your business is properly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and that your registration details are up to date.
Step 2: Have Your CAC Number Ready
Your Tax ID will be generated based on your CAC registration number. Keep this information accessible.
Step 3: Retrieve Your Corporate Tax ID
From January 1, 2026, use your CAC number to retrieve your 13-digit corporate Tax ID from the official portal.
What Happens if You Don’t Get Your Tax ID?
While the Nigerian tax authorities have emphasized that the Tax ID is “strictly for tax administration,” failing to obtain your Tax ID could affect:
- Filing tax returns – You may be unable to submit returns without the new Tax ID
- Obtaining tax clearance – Required for contracts, visa applications, and business transactions
- Accessing government services – Some services may require proof of tax registration
- Business operations – Companies may need Tax IDs for banking and regulatory compliance
Important: The authorities have assured Nigerians that the introduction of the Tax ID will NOT lead to bank account deductions or closures due to non-compliance. This is purely an administrative tool.
How to Retrieve Your Tax ID: Quick Overview
For Individuals:
- Visit www.taxid.jrb.gov.ng or www.taxid.nrs.gov.ng
- Click “Individual” tab
- Select “National Identification Number (NIN)”
- Enter your 11-digit NIN
- Click “Retrieve Tax ID”
- Enter First Name, Last Name, and Date of Birth (exactly as on NIMC records)
- Click “Continue”
- Your 13-digit Tax ID will be displayed
For Businesses:
- Visit www.taxid.jrb.gov.ng or www.taxid.nrs.gov.ng
- Click “Corporate” tab
- Select your organization type
- Enter your CAC registration number
- Click “Retrieve Tax ID”
- Your 13-digit Tax ID will be displayed
Key Benefits of the New Tax ID System
1. One ID for All Tax Matters
No more juggling multiple tax numbers. One Tax ID covers all your tax obligations across federal, state, and local governments.
2. Nationwide Accessibility
Retrieve your Tax ID from anywhere in Nigeria with internet access—no need to visit tax offices.
3. Fast and Simple Process
The entire retrieval process takes less than 5 minutes if you have the correct information.
4. Enhanced Security
Linking to NIN and CAC numbers reduces identity theft and ensures only legitimate taxpayers receive Tax IDs.
5. Better Service Delivery
Access tax services faster with a streamlined identification system.
Common Concerns Addressed
“Will This Affect My Bank Account?”
No. The tax authorities have explicitly stated that the Tax ID introduction will NOT lead to bank account deductions or closures.
“What if I Don’t Have a NIN?”
You must obtain one before you can get your Tax ID. Visit the nearest NIMC center to enroll.
“What About My Old TIN?”
All old TINs will be phased out and replaced by the new Tax ID from January 1, 2026.
“Is This Compulsory?”
Yes, for all taxable persons in Nigeria—individuals and businesses.
“What if My Details Don’t Match?”
Contact NIMC to update your records before attempting to retrieve your Tax ID.
Important Dates to Remember
December 31, 2025 – Old TIN system officially ends
January 1, 2026 – New Tax ID system becomes effective
January 1, 2026 – Portal goes live for Tax ID retrieval
Where to Get Help
If you need assistance:
Online:
- Visit www.taxid.jrb.gov.ng
- Visit www.taxid.nrs.gov.ng
In Person:
- Contact your nearest tax office
- Visit JRB or NRS offices in your state
