We present a clear, practical introduction to the Tax Identification Number (TIN) issued by the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM/LHDN). This identifier is central for filings, bank accounts, licensing, e-Invoicing, and cross-border cooperation. Understanding the TIN helps both individuals and companies meet obligations and ensure compliance from day one.
The format changed on January 2, 2023: most individuals now have the “IG” prefix, while entities use codes like C, D or PT with a trailing zero. Registration can be automatic for certain cases, completed online via e-Daftar, or done at a branch.
You can search or retrieve a TIN through the MyTax portal, hotline, live chat, or branch visits. We include clear steps and contact points so you can register, access your account, and retrieve the correct tax number online without delays.
Key Takeaways
- The TIN from IRBM/LHDN is essential for filings, banking, and e-Invoicing.
- New prefixes (IG, C, D, PT) took effect January 2, 2023.
- Registration paths: automatic issuance, e-Daftar online, or branch service.
- Retrieve your TIN via MyTax portal, hotline, live chat, or branch.
- We provide practical steps and contacts to help individuals and businesses act with confidence.
Understanding Malaysia’s Tax Identification Number and Why It Matters Today
IRBM introduced a standardized identification format to improve reporting, treaty administration, and Common Reporting Standard (CRS) compliance. This change makes digital matching across agencies and banks more reliable.
The tax identification number is an alphanumeric identifier assigned by the Inland Revenue Board. It combines a taxpayer-type code with unique digits so agencies know which identification number appears on every form and return.
Key purposes include:
- Accurate filings and reporting for individuals and companies.
- Administration of treaty relief, CRS, and automatic exchange of information.
- Business registration, licensing, and eligibility for grants or refunds.
The implementation under the Income Tax Act began in 2022, with format updates in early 2023. We recommend a quick verification step: confirm your profile format on MyTax so your records flow correctly across the system.
Who Must Have a TIN with the Inland Revenue Board
We confirm a valid identification number is mandatory for many categories of filers. A valid tin is required for employees under the MTD scheme. It also applies to any taxpayer who becomes assessable or must furnish a return.
Companies, partnerships, LLPs, associations and trusts need a number before starting filings or transactions. Registration is also triggered when you open or operate a business that creates tax obligations.
The revenue board enforces tin use under the ITA 1967, the RPGT Act 1976 for property transfers, and the Stamp Act 1949 for transfer instruments. Failure to register can delay refunds and invite compliance notices.
| Category | When Registration Is Required | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Employees (MTD) | Upon employment with MTD reporting | Automatic issuance often applies; verify on MyTax |
| Individuals & Freelancers | When assessable or required to file | Register before filing returns, even if no tax due |
| Companies & Businesses | Before lodging returns or conducting taxable transactions | Includes partnerships, LLPs, associations, trusts |
| Property Transactions | Before disposal/acquisition or stamping | RPGT and Stamp Act require valid identification |
- Validate first: check existing records before creating a duplicate registration.
- Coverage: tin extends broadly across taxpayers as defined by board malaysia.
How to get income tax number malaysia: Step-by-Step Registration Paths
We outline three practical paths for registration so you can pick the fastest route for your situation.
You can receive a TIN automatically, through the e‑Daftar portal, or by visiting an IRBM branch. Each path has clear steps and verification points that protect your identification and speed processing.
Automatic issuance
Automatic registration applies when records are linked. MTD employers often trigger TIN creation for employees. Companies incorporated via SSM MyCoID usually receive a TIN automatically.
Tip: Check MyTax before applying so you do not create duplicates.
Online via e‑Daftar
Access the portal at https://edaftar.hasil.gov.my/index/index.php. Enter your name and unique reference (NRIC, passport or BRN), confirm the registered phone number or email, upload supporting documents, and submit.
The system checks existing records and returns a result or opens a new registration. This cut prevents duplicate registrations and reduces processing time.
Manual registration at an IRBM branch
If online paths are not available, prepare category‑specific forms and identity documents and visit a branch. Common categories include non‑resident individuals, companies, partnerships and associations.
Bring originals and copies for verification. If issues arise, contact HASiL Care Line at +603-8911 1000 or +603-8911 1100 or use the MyTax portal for follow-up.
| Path | Who uses it | Key action |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic | MTD employees; MyCoID companies | Verify on MyTax; no submission needed if linked |
| e‑Daftar (portal) | Individuals and companies eligible for online filing | Enter NRIC/Passport/BRN, verify contact, upload documents, submit |
| Branch | Non-residents; special entity types; failed online cases | Complete forms, present documents, get verification in person |
How to Check or Retrieve Your TIN on the MyTax Portal
Use MyTax to locate your TIN quickly by following a few precise portal prompts.
Logging in and Search for individuals
Log in at https://mytax.hasil.gov.my and open the Search TIN function. Enter your NRIC or passport exactly as recorded. The system matches records and displays the tax identification number for your account.
Searching for companies and non-individuals
For companies, use the BRN field. The portal returns company details and a copy option so you can paste the identifier into e-Services or e-Invoicing without transcription errors.
Alternative channels and support
If you lack a login, register for a MyTax account and prepare identity verification. The e‑Daftar menu also supports a search if portal login is unavailable.
- Ensure email and phone details match IRBM records; mismatches block results.
- Contact HASiL Care Line: +603-8911 1000 or +603-8911 1100 for assistance.
- Live chat or a branch visit are available for unresolved cases.
TIN Formats, Prefixes, and the January 2023 Update You Must Know
We summarise the format changes that streamline verification across systems. IRBM updated prefixes and endings so records share a consistent structure for machine matching.
Individuals
The new individual prefix is IG. Examples: IG845462070 and IG57303584070.
These replaced older SG/OG formats effective January 2023. Validate your record against this format and request correction if it differs.
Non-individual entities
Entity codes include C (companies), CS (co‑ops), D (partnerships), PT (LLPs), TA (trust bodies), LE (Labuan entities) and others.
From January 2023, a trailing “0” is standard for non-individual records. Example: C20830570210, CS1234567890.
e‑Invoicing EI codes
- EI00000000010 — Malaysian individuals with only MyKad/MyTentera
- EI00000000020 — foreign buyers without a local identifier
- EI00000000030 — foreign suppliers without a local identifier
“Consistent formats reduce rejected submissions and speed reconciliation across portals and banks.”
| Category | Prefix / Code | Post‑Jan 2023 Trait |
|---|---|---|
| Individuals | IG | No trailing zero; sample: IG845462070 |
| Companies | C | Trailing zero added; sample: C20830570210 |
| LLPs / Trusts | PT / TA | Trailing zero applied uniformly |
Quick checks: confirm prefix, length, and trailing digit when updating master data. Consistent formatting prevents failed portal uploads and reduces queries for taxpayers.
Documents You’ll Need to Register, by Taxpayer Category
Gathering the correct documents speeds registration and prevents delays. Below we list the core items you must prepare for a successful submission.
Resident and non-resident individuals
Resident individuals should have NRIC, Army/Police ID, or passport. If you earn business income, include the business registration certificate and the relevant form.
Non-resident individuals need a passport and a business registration certificate if they operate locally.
Companies: Malaysian and foreign entities
Provide a certificate of incorporation for Malaysian companies. Foreign companies must supply registration documents from their home jurisdiction.
Also include director, manager, and company secretary particulars and any change notices that affect identification number matching.
Other applicants
- Co‑operatives: registration certificate and committee list.
- Partnerships: registration plus partners list and business profile.
- Associations: registration and committee members’ IDs and addresses.
- LLPs: notice and registration form; trusts: trust deed and relevant documents.
Practical checklist: bring originals and copies, align names across documents, and prepare a categorized file for branch or online submission. This reduces errors, supports verification for purposes of compliance, and helps each taxpayer meet business registration dependencies when obtaining a tax identification number.
Common Issues and Fixes When Registering or Searching for Your Number
Many search failures trace back to mismatched identity details or an unregistered profile at the portal.
No search result on MyTax:
No search result on MyTax
Check that your NRIC, passport or BRN matches Inland Revenue Board records exactly.
If records differ, correct the identification or submit a new registration via e‑Daftar. Contact live chat or the HASiL Care Line when system delays occur.
Prefix or format concerns
Confirm the current format: individuals use IG while non‑individuals often require a trailing zero.
If a record lacks the proper format, request an update so portal validations accept your entry.
Access problems and recovery
Use the account recovery step on MyTax and complete email and verification checks.
If access fails, escalate at a branch with originals, a copy of supporting ID, and any reference numbers from calls or chats.
“Accurate records reduce rework and keep filings on time.”
| Issue | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| No MyTax result | Mismatched ID or not registered | Verify documents, register via portal or contact support |
| Incorrect format | Old prefix or missing trailing zero | Request format update with Inland Revenue Board |
| Lost access | Unverified account or password issues | Use recovery steps, then visit branch if unresolved |
Legal reminder: misuse of a tin may trigger penalties under the Income Tax Act (Section 66A). Maintain records and copy reference IDs from interactions for audit trails and tax compliance.
Using Your TIN: Tax Compliance, Business Registration, and e-Invoicing
We treat the TIN as a master identifier that links filings, business registration, and e‑Invoicing for clear compliance results.
Filing returns, claiming reliefs, and ensuring tax compliance
Use your TIN when lodging returns and claiming reliefs. Accurate entry speeds assessments and reduces queries for taxpayers.
Include the TIN on declarations and supporting schedules so deductions and credits are matched quickly. This helps maintain ongoing tax compliance and avoids late notices under the ITA 1967.
Business registration, licensing, and financial transactions
The TIN is required for business registration, permits, and banking mandates. Registering a company or updating profiles is faster when internal records align with IRBM formats.
Businesses should validate counterparty details during onboarding. Simple checks prevent failed filings and speed approvals for companies and vendors.
e-Invoice readiness and legal reminders under the Income Tax Act
For e‑Invoicing, use the correct TIN or the EI placeholders where applicable: EI00000000010, EI00000000020, and EI00000000030. This keeps invoices valid for electronic processing.
Compliance controls include periodic master data checks, validation steps before onboarding, and documented procedures that prevent misuse. Misuse may trigger penalties; keep records and audit trails for every transaction.
“Consistent TIN use reduces rework, speeds approvals, and protects businesses from regulatory risk.”
- Align customer and supplier records with IRBM formats.
- Embed TIN verification in registration workflows.
- Train staff on permitted EI placeholders and reporting rules.
Conclusion
Maintaining current identification records with the revenue board keeps filings smooth and reduces operational risk. We advise each company to keep a central registration dossier and verify entries on the portal before submitting documents.
Confirm the January 2023 format change and audit your company records so your income tax number and other identification numbers match e‑Services and e‑Invoicing fields. Copy the verified identifier into system profiles to avoid rejected submissions.
For edge cases, contact the Inland Revenue Board via HASiL Care Line, live chat, or a branch. We stand ready to help you apply the step framework and keep company records aligned with board malaysia standards.
FAQ
What is a Tax Identification Number issued by the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia?
The Tax Identification Number is a unique identifier assigned by the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN/IRBM) for tax administration. It links a person or entity to tax records, filing obligations, and payment history. For individuals this now uses the IG prefix; companies and other entities use defined entity codes.
Who must register for a tax identification number with LHDN?
Residents who earn assessable income, employees with employer reporting obligations, freelancers, and non-resident assessable persons must be registered. Businesses including companies, partnerships, LLPs, associations and trusts also require an identification number for compliance and reporting.
What are the main registration paths available?
Registration can occur automatically via linked systems such as payroll reporting (MTD) or MyCoID company incorporation. You may also register online using the e-Daftar/MyTax portal or complete manual registration at any LHDN branch with the required forms and documents.
How do we register online through the MyTax or e-Daftar portal?
Access the MyTax portal with a secure account, select e-Daftar, enter identification and business details, upload supporting documents for verification, and submit. The portal confirms receipt and provides the assigned identification once processed.
What if we must register in person at an LHDN branch?
Visit a branch with completed registration forms, original identity documents (NRIC or passport), company incorporation documents for businesses, and any authorisation letters. Staff will verify details and issue the identification or provide processing timelines.
How can we search for or retrieve a TIN on the MyTax portal?
Log in to MyTax and use the Search TIN feature. Individuals can search with NRIC or passport numbers; companies and non-individuals use the Business Registration Number (BRN). If no result appears, check data accuracy or try alternative channels.
What alternative channels exist if MyTax search fails?
Contact the HASiL Care Line, use the MyTax live chat where available, or visit an LHDN branch. Be ready with identity documents and supporting files for verification and retrieval assistance.
What are the current TIN formats and prefixes we should know?
Individuals now use the IG prefix replacing older SG/OG formats after January 2023. Non-individuals use entity codes such as C (companies), D, PT, TA and others, with standardized trailing zeros in some cases. e-Invoicing EI codes apply in special cross-border scenarios.
Which documents are required for resident and non-resident individuals?
Residents must present NRIC, proof of address and employment details where applicable. Non-resident applicants provide passport, entry or work permits and any documentation proving Malaysian-source income or engagement.
What documents do companies need when applying?
Malaysian companies need incorporation certificates, Form 24/49 or SSM documents, MOA/AOA as applicable, and authorised signatory identification. Foreign entities should provide certified incorporation documents, appointment letters for local representatives and relevant licences.
What about partnerships, LLPs, associations and trusts?
These entities must supply registration certificates, partnership or trust deeds, details of partners or trustees, and authorisation letters for the filing representative.
Why might a MyTax search return no result and how can we fix it?
Common causes include data mismatch, unregistered taxpayers, or delays in system updates. Verify the identification entered, confirm registration status, re-submit registration if needed, or get help from HASiL support or an LHDN branch.
What should we do if the prefix or format seems incorrect?
Prefix updates like IG adoption may not reflect in older records. Report discrepancies via MyTax support or the Care Line and provide official documents so LHDN can correct the record and ensure the proper format is applied.
How can we recover access to MyTax if locked out?
Use the portal’s account recovery tools, reset credentials using verified contact details, or contact HASiL Care Line for manual identity verification. Take proof of identity and relevant reference numbers when requesting assistance.
How is an identification number used for compliance and business activities?
The identifier is required for filing returns, claiming reliefs, registering for licences, opening bank accounts, and complying with e-invoice obligations. It also links payroll reporting and statutory submissions to LHDN records.
Do companies need the TIN for e-Invoicing and EI codes?
Yes. Entities must provide correct identification when issuing e-invoices. Special EI codes apply for Malaysian individuals, foreign buyers or foreign suppliers in cross-border transactions. Ensure details match LHDN records to avoid processing issues.
Can we use the TIN for business registration and financial transactions?
Authorities and financial institutions require the identifier for company registration, licence applications, loan processing and tax clearance. Keep the record current and share the reference as requested for compliance.
