BIR Issues Warning Against Illegal Sale of TIN Cards. The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the unauthorized sale of Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) cards. The BIR emphasized that TINs are not meant to be sold, and individuals should refrain from paying for ID assistance offered in online marketplaces.
TINs: Issued by BIR for Free
TINs are provided free of charge by the Bureau of Internal Revenue. Commissioner Romeo Lumagui emphasized that TIN cards are exclusively issued and released by authorized BIR personnel. Obtaining TINs or TIN cards from unauthorized sources, including non-BIR personnel or online platforms like Facebook, Shopee, Lazada, is deemed illegal, fraudulent, and fake.
Illegitimate Offers on Social Media and Online Platforms
The BIR has discovered instances of individuals advertising “BIR TIN assistance” on social media and various online selling platforms. Commissioner Lumagui denounced these offers as unauthorized and illegal, cautioning the public against falling prey to deceptive schemes.
Actions Taken by BIR
Commissioner Lumagui disclosed that the BIR’s Client Support Service had engaged with representatives of Shopee and Lazada on May 31, urging the immediate removal of advertisements and posts promoting TIN ID assistance. The bureau has also undertaken entrapment operations since 2019, leading to the apprehension of illegal operators involved in providing TIN ID assistance services.
Legal Consequences and Reporting
Falsification and sale of TIN cards are serious offenses punishable by fines and imprisonment under the Tax Code of 1997. The BIR encourages the public to report any illegal sellers of TIN or TIN ID by contacting the hotline at (02) 8538-3200 or via email at [email protected]. Stay vigilant and avoid falling victim to unauthorized TIN card schemes.