There will a time in Ghana where persons without a Tax Identification Number (TIN) will find it impossible to conduct official business and access some basic public services in the country.
TIN is a unique 11-digit number generated by the GRA for persons including corporate entities upon application. It is part of efforts of the government to improve tax compliance and broaden the tax net.
The TIN is “absolutely free” and can be obtained at all GRA offices in the country and online.
“I wish to reiterate that registration for TIN comes at no cost to the taxpayer, it is absolutely free…we appeal to the public to take note that this is a free service and to report any staff of GRA who violates this principle. Such erring staff will be severely sanctioned,” said Emmanuel Kofi Nti, The Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority
GRA as part of its operational standards pledges to generate the number within 48 hours upon application accompanied with a valid national identification number such as driver’s licence, passport, voter’s ID.
Below are the list of things you cannot do without a TIN in Ghana
- Clear goods from the port
- Register your land document with the Lands Commission
- Obtain a tax clearance certificate from GRA
- Open a bank account
- Register your company at the Registrars General’s Department or any District Assembly office
- Receiving any payment from the Controller and Accountant General or a District Assembly in respect of a contract for the supply of any goods or provisions of any services
- Obtain payment for contracts done for the government
- File a case at the courts
- Obtain a passport from the passport office
- Obtain a drivers license and register your vehicle at the DVLA
- Bid for contracts from a government agency
- Conduct business with the Ministries, Departments and Agencies
- Cannot conduct business with the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies
Graphic Online