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Congratulations on landing your first job! Becoming part of the workforce is an exciting milestone but comes with responsibilities. As a newly minted employee, you're now obligated to pay taxes. So, you need a Tax Identification Number (TIN).
Don't worry because we've got you covered! This guide will take you through the steps of a TIN application, even if you need to tackle the process independently. And the best part? You can complete it all online.
What’s a TIN and What Is It For?
A TIN is a unique, system-generated number of nine digits for individual taxpayers.
Assigned by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the TIN exists so that the BIR can accurately record a taxpayer's filed tax return. It also allows easy access, monitoring, and handling of a taxpayer's data and interactions with the national tax collecting agency.
You only need one TIN, which has no expiration date. You must use the same TIN when you change jobs, become self-employed, or buy property.
TIN Application Requirements
Most Philippine companies will assist fresh graduates and first-time employees with their TIN application. You can submit the requirements to your Human Resources (HR) department, which will forward them to the BIR.
Typically, HR will require you to provide the following documents:
1. Accomplished TIN Application Form 1902
This BIR form is specifically for new employees earning their salary or making income in the Philippines.
2. Any Government-Issued ID
The ID should contain your full name, birthdate, and address. If the ID has no address, BIR says you can provide any proof of residence or business address. Examples of government-issued IDs include:
- National ID
- Philippine Passport
- Driver's License
- Social Security System (SSS) ID
- Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) License
3. Marriage Certificate
If you’re married, secure a copy of your marriage certificate with the Philippine Statistics Authority.
How to Get TIN on Your Own
If you find yourself in a situation where you have to register for a TIN yourself, you're in luck. You can now do a TIN online application through BIR's Online Registration and Update System (ORUS).
To start, you need an ORUS account before you can proceed with the TIN application. Here’s a step-by-step guide.
Create an ORUS Account
- Go to orus.bir.gov.ph. Tap "New Registration" and choose "As an Individual." Under the list of TIN application requirements, click "Create an Account" at the bottom.
- Select "Taxpayer" and tap "Without Existing TIN." Another pop-up will appear (a reminder that having two TINs is criminally liable). Click "I Agree."
- In the "User Type-Transaction" dropdown menu, choose "Get TIN for Filipino Citizen-E.O. 98/One Time Taxpayer."
- Fill out the form and click "Register" once done. Reminder: Provide an active email address since it will be the login credentials for all BIR-related registration and update matters.
- Check your inbox for the ORUS verification email. If you don't see it, check your spam folder. Once verified, log in to ORUS using your email and password.
Accomplish the Online TIN Application Form
With an ORUS account, you can now register and complete your TIN application.
- Log in to your ORUS account and tap "New Registration." Choose "As an Individual."
- Click "Fill Up Registration Form" and enter your information. This section has seven pages; tap "Continue" after each one. You'll need to upload a government-issued ID and a selfie holding that ID towards the end.
- Click "Continue" to review the information you've plugged in. If everything is correct, click "Submit Application."
You should receive an ORUS email acknowledging receipt of your application. Once reviewed and approved, you should get your TIN—the nine digits—in your inbox in a few days.
FAQs on TIN Application
You can apply for TIN online or physically at a BIR Revenue District Office (RDO) near you, even if you don't have an employer yet. Remember, once BIR issues you a TIN, provide your number to HR once you’ve been employed.
Here are more answers to other frequently asked questions about the TIN application:
When should I apply for a TIN?
Per BIR, you must have your TIN within 10 days of starting your employment.
How can I verify my TIN?
You can do a TIN verification on ORUS. You should see "TIN Inquiry” (the last item on the menu) and follow the steps.
Another way to verify your TIN is through "Revie" on the BIR's website. You'll find the bot at the bottom right corner. You should see "TIN Validation" on the query menu.
How can I get a TIN ID?
In a memorandum, BIR strongly advises taxpayers to secure a TIN ID online via ORUS. You can use this digital TIN ID guide to download and print yours.
Can I still get a physical TIN card?
BIR says you can get a physical TIN card if you just applied for a TIN. Head to the RDO where you or your employer are registered and bring the following:
- Completed BIR Form No. 1905
- Any government-issued ID
- 1x1 picture
Before you go, call to confirm if the RDO is still issuing physical TIN cards.
How long does it take to get a TIN ID?
You can generate a digital TIN ID on ORUS in minutes. As for the physical TIN ID, it's best to ask the RDO where you applied. Getting a physical or digital TIN ID is free.
What do I do if I lose my physical TIN Card/ID?
You can go to ORUS to do an online application for a TIN card, which you can download and print.
You can also go back to your RDO and request for a re-issuance due to damaged or lost TIN card. You must submit an affidavit of loss and pay ₱100 as a replacement fee.
Where can I go for TIN-related questions or concerns?
In addition to Revie, you can call BIR's Customer Assistance hotline at (02) 8538-3200. You can also visit the nearest RDO or BIR office to speak directly with a BIR officer who can help address your concerns.
Job Ready and Set to Go
Joining the working world can be a scary experience with the processes involved, from TIN application to SSS, PhilHealth, and PAG-IBIG memberships to government service fees.
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