The public does not need a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) to open a bank account or renew a vehicle licence, according to a report on the subject, which urged people not to be misled by false claims.
The report said people should not believe unfounded rumours that these services are closed to those without a TIN. It said permission is available to open bank accounts and renew vehicle licences even without one.
Background
A TIN is the number the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) issues to identify a taxpayer. Recent news reports have described long queues at IRD offices as people sought TIN certificates, and a new procedure that removes the need for the public to visit IRD offices.
Confusion over which transactions need a TIN has spread widely, including through social media, which is the setting for the false claims the report refers to.
What it means
People who have not yet obtained a TIN should not need to join queues at IRD offices only to open a bank account or renew a vehicle licence, according to the report. Anyone unsure about a specific transaction should check the current rules with the IRD, their bank or the relevant licensing office.
