Filing a tax statement is one of the most basic responsibilities we have as citizens of Davao and the Philippines. However, you need to obtain your own unique TIN or Tax Identification Number before you can do so. All natural-born Filipinos have to file it because it will be utilized for all tax-related documents. When I first applied for a TIN, I too was confused with the process and did not know where or how I should start. Hence, I am writing this post to help you navigate the process and make it go as smoothly as possible.
Please note that this process applies not just in Davao – all process of applying for TIN is the same wherever you are in the Philippines. The first thing that you have to consider before applying for a TIN is the purpose for it. Nowadays, BIR are very strict about accepting applications and you need to have a specific purpose of getting one before you can be approved. Are you self-employed or just got hired by a company? You will be asked to specify your need for a TIN before you can move on to the succeeding steps in your application.
You should visit the BIR office in Davao in order to get your BIR Form 1901. This application form must be filled out with basic personal information such as full name, residence and/or business address, etc. In the Taxpayer type section, you have to specify which category you belong in. Your options include Sole Proprietor, Trust, Estate, or Professional. If you are a business owner, make sure to supply pertinent information regarding your business.
For those who are non-citizen, you should fill out BIR Form 1902. In this form, you have to specify whether you are a residential alien or local employee. Also, you have to provide the same information as above although some of the required information might vary.
I also submitted a few important documents during my application for TIN in BIR Davao. Make sure you prepare any of the following documents: birth certificate, or DTI certificate of registration and Mayor's permit for those applying TIN for a business enterprise.
Applicants of TIN in Davao must pay a fee of PhP 500 (this was the rate when I last applied – make sure to call up BIR Davao for updated information on fees). You have to pay this fee via any of the authorized district office agent banks. Also, you have to pay PhP 15 for the Documentary Stamp Tax.
Once you have completed the forms and other required documents, you can mail it to the corresponding BIR offices. Or you can also visit their branch personally to submit and pay those fees.
Wait for your TIN to be mailed to the address that you have indicated in your application form. Based on my experience, the TIN will be released and sent to you roughly a month or two, depending on the volume of applications at BIR Davao or local BIR branches in your area.
