NIN, CAC numbers to serve as tax IDs from 2026 — FIRS
The Federal Inland Revenue Service has declared that from 2026, the National Identification Number will automatically function as the Tax Identification Number for individuals in Nigeria.
This clarification was released on Monday as part of a public awareness initiative regarding new tax laws communicated by the Service on X.
According to the updated tax framework, the FIRS mentioned that businesses will no longer need to procure a separate Tax Identification Number, as their registration numbers from the Corporate Affairs Commission will now act as their official tax identifiers.
The announcement came in response to extensive public apprehension regarding the new tax law provisions that require a Tax ID for specific transactions, such as managing and owning bank accounts.
Further clarification from the Service explained that the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, which is set to be implemented in January 2026, necessitates the use of a Tax ID for designated transactions.
However, the FIRS emphasized that this requirement is not a novel concept, noting that it has been in place since the Finance Act of 2019 but is now being reinforced under the revised legal framework.
“The Tax ID consolidates all previously issued Tax Identification Numbers by the FIRS and State Internal Revenue Services into a single identifier,” stated the Service.
“For individuals, your NIN will automatically serve as your Tax ID, while for registered corporations, your CAC RC number is utilized. A physical card is not required, as the Tax ID is a unique number directly associated with your identity.”
The Service also explained that the new system aims to streamline identification processes, eliminate duplication, close tax evasion loopholes, and promote equity by ensuring that all individuals with taxable income contribute fairly.
Additionally, the FIRS encouraged Nigerians to ignore misinformation about the reforms, reassuring the public that the revamped tax framework aims to improve efficiency and transparency in tax administration.
In related news, Taiwo Oyedele, the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, revealed that banks will be obligated to request a Tax Identification Number from all taxable individuals in Nigeria.
Oyedele noted that this requirement is part of the federal government’s new tax administration framework and will come into effect starting January 1, 2026.
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