In Hong Kong, the tax identification number, normally referred to as the Taxpayer Identification Number, is important in handling personal and business tax matters. It is a number assigned by the Inland Revenue Department and used for all kinds of tax activities in Hong Kong. Here’s how you can find or obtain your Hong Kong tax ID number:
For Individuals
For individual taxpayers, the tax ID number is called the Hong Kong Identity (HKID) Card Number. This number shall be the TIN for all personal tax purposes, including but not limited to filing of tax returns, payment of taxes, and all correspondence with IRD. Here’s how you can find your HKID number:
- HKID Card: Your HKID Card number, which is your tax ID, can be found on your Hong Kong Identity Card. A Hong Kong Identity Card is issued to all residents of Hong Kong and your HKID number is normally marked on the card below your date of birth.
- Previous Tax Correspondence: In case you have filed your tax returns or have any form of correspondence with the IRD previously, your HKID number would be mentioned in these documents.
For Businesses
- In businesses, the tax ID number is your Business Registration Number (BRN). A business registration number is allotted to you by the IRD if it falls under the purview of the Business Registration Ordinance. To find or retrieve your business’s tax ID number:
- Business Registration Certificate: The BRN will be on your Business Registration Certificate. This is a legal document that should be conspicuously displayed at your place of business.
- IRD Correspondence: Any formal correspondence from IRD, such as tax assessments or notices, will bear your business’s BRN.
Getting a New TIN
In case you are an individual who needs to apply for an HKID card for the first time or a business that needs to be registered, you shall proceed with the following steps:
- Individuals: You have to apply for an HKID card from the Immigration Department. Your HKID card number will be your TIN once issued.
- Businesses: In addition to filing for incorporation with the Companies Registry, you should apply for business registration simultaneously using the IRD. If everything goes well, you will be provided with a BRN.
Conclusion
Knowing your tax identification number in Hong Kong is the key to efficiency in managing your taxes. As an individual or a business, you will find that having your tax ID at your fingertips will ease any process concerning taxes. If you can’t find your tax ID, IRD’s customer service will help you retrieve or confirm your number.