Dear Attorney,

I left the Philippines in 2007 and have since forgotten my Tax Identification Number (TIN). As I plan to settle certain matters that require this information, I would like to know if there is any way for me to retrieve or be provided with my TIN, given that I have been living abroad for many years. Could you guide me on how to proceed with this concern?

Sincerely,
A Concerned Overseas Filipino Worker

Insights:

In the Philippines, the Tax Identification Number (TIN) is a permanent number assigned to individuals and entities for taxation purposes. It is used for all tax-related transactions with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). If you have lost or forgotten your TIN, especially after being abroad for a prolonged period, there are several ways to retrieve it.

Personal Inquiry at BIR Office: If you have a representative in the Philippines, they can visit the BIR office on your behalf. Your representative will need to provide valid identification and an authorization letter, along with a Special Power of Attorney (SPA), if required by the BIR.
Online Retrieval through the BIR Website: The BIR has launched an online inquiry system, which can be useful for Filipinos abroad. You may contact the BIR through their official website or email their customer service (contact_us@bir.gov.ph) with the necessary details, including your full name, date of birth, and, if possible, any other relevant identification numbers or previous employment details in the Philippines. They may guide you through the steps of retrieving your TIN remotely.
Verification through Previous Documents: If you have any old documents related to tax payments or employment in the Philippines, such as income tax returns, pay slips, or official receipts, your TIN might be printed on these.
Data Privacy Considerations: It is crucial to ensure that your personal information is protected when making requests, especially through email or online channels. The BIR follows strict privacy laws in line with the Philippine Data Privacy Act, ensuring that your data remains confidential during the retrieval process.

It’s advisable to initiate contact with the BIR as soon as possible, providing the relevant details needed to expedite the search for your TIN. If you encounter any legal or procedural hurdles during the retrieval process, having a lawyer or representative handle the issue directly with the BIR on your behalf might be a practical solution.