Wondering How to Get a TIN ID in the Philippines? Here's a Step-by-Step Guide

Knowing whether you qualify to apply for a TIN ID is crucial before visiting the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) office. Here’s a quick breakdown:

For Employees: Your employer is responsible for registering you with the BIR and securing your TIN.
For Self-Employed or Freelancers: You need to personally apply for your TIN. Prepare the required documents.
For Unemployed or Students: You can still apply for your TIN as it a requirement in most government and private transactions. Prepare the required documents.
For Foreigners: If you’re working or doing business in the Philippines, you’re also required to have a TIN.

To process your TIN application, you will need a duly filled BIR registration form and a copy of one valid government-issued ID (e.g. Passport, UMID, Driver’s License, Voter’s ID, NBI Clearance). In case you don't have any of the primary IDs mentioned, you can also use an SSS card, GSIS Card, Seaman’s Book, Postal ID (issued 2016 onwards), and Seafarer’s Record Book.

You will also need to bring the following:

• PSA-issued birth certificate
• Community tax certificate (cedula), 
• 1x1 photo
• Marriage contract for married women

For the different types of BIR form, refer below:

• Form No. 1901 – for self-employed and mixed-income individuals, non-resident aliens engaged in trade or business, and estates and trusts
• Form No. 1902 – for individuals earning purely compensation income (local and alien employees)
• Form No. 1904 – for one-time taxpayers and persons registering under Executive Order No. 98

Visit the Revenue District Office (RDO) that oversees your home or place of business. You can find the appropriate RDO by using the BIR website. Arrive early to avoid long queues and bring a pen with you to fill out forms on-site. Then, proceed to the counter to have your documents checked. Once your application has been validated, submit it, and wait for further instructions.

Some RDOs may issue your TIN ID on the same day, while others may require you to return to the office on the scheduled release date. Bring your official receipt and a valid ID to claim your TIN ID.

1. Do I need to pay an application fee when applying for TIN ID?

Applying for a TIN ID is free for first time applicants. It also has no expiration date, so you don’t have to renew it every year. 

2. What should I do if I lose my TIN ID card?

You can request for a new card at your RDO if you have misplaced your actual TIN ID. You need to pay P100 for a replacement fee. Prepare the following documents for ID replacement:

•  A notarized affidavit explaining the circumstances of the loss
• BIR Form 1905
• Any valid ID for identity verification

3. Can I have multiple TIN IDs?

No. Everyone should only have one TIN and owning multiple ones can result in legal penalties. In case more than one TIN is issued in error, the taxpayer must notify the BIR immediately so that the additional TIN can be canceled and consolidated.