Service providers offering TIN cards and TIN registration services online are operating on platforms such as Facebook, Lazada, and Shopee.

Anyone part of the 49.56 million people that make up the country’s labor force is required to obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) before they can even start working. However, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has warned the public against obtaining a TIN card from unauthorized online sellers. 

The agency has likewise warned against obtaining TIN registration services from online service providers. “These offers of TIN ID assistance posted in online channels or selling platforms are not authorized by the BIR and are, therefore, considered illegal. Please do not be deceived or misled by such offers,” says BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui, Jr. 

The agency has discovered online sellers offering TIN cards and registration services on platforms such as Facebook, Lazada, and Shopee. The agency is already working with representatives of Lazada and Shopee to stop these unauthorized sellers. 

TIN Cards are Free

The BIR has pointed out that TIN cards are actually free of charge and cannot be sold. Acquiring one does not legally require a third-party service as well. The public is therefore being reminded that only the BIR can issue TIN cards.

The agency warns that the unauthorized registration services and sale of TIN cards can lead to a number of unfortunate incidents for victims. These incidents include identity theft and tax fraud, among others.

“Do not get TIN or TIN cards from unauthorized BIR personnel, non-BIR personnel or through Facebook, Shopee, Lazada, and other online selling platforms, because they are considered illegal, fraudulent and fake,” reminds Commissioner Lumagui. 

How to Properly Apply for TIN

To avoid any issues and complications, those who need to apply for TIN should follow the correct and legal registration procedure. Requirements for registration vary depending on the nature of the application being made. 

For example, an application for the TIN of a local employee requires the following:

• BIR Form No. 1902
• Any government-issued ID that shows the name, address, and birthdate of the applicant. In case the ID has no address, any proof of residence
• Marriage Contract (for married females)

Self-employed or mixed-income individuals, on the other hand, are required to submit the following:

• BIR Form No. 1901 version 2018
• Any identification issued by an authorized government body that shows the name, address and birthdate of the applicant;
• BIR Printed Receipts/Invoices or Final & clear sample of Principal Receipts/ Invoices

For the complete list of requirements for TIN registration, you can refer to the list posted on the BIR website.