The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has launched its annual tax return filing season with a major announcement that marks a new chapter in Uganda’s tax administration: the transition from the Tax Identification Number (TIN) to the National Identification Number (NIN).
In a statement shared on its official social media platforms under the #LearnTaxUg campaign, URA revealed that “soon and very soon your NIN will be your TIN.” The new system will allow Ugandans to use a single identification number to conduct all payments, registrations, and license applications, simplifying access to both tax and non-tax government services.
“This change will enable you to conduct all payments, licenses and registrations using one channel,” URA stated.
One Digital Identity for All Services
According to URA, the shift—under the Tax Procedures Amendment Bill—is aimed at digitally unifying government services, improving efficiency, and reducing tax evasion.
The integration means that citizens’ NINs, issued by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), will now serve as their official tax identity. Businesses registered under the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) will similarly use their URSB registration numbers as TINs.
Officials say this reform will streamline tax compliance, eliminate duplicate records, and make it easier for individuals and companies to meet their obligations without multiple registration processes.
Annual Tax Filing Season Opens
The announcement coincides with the opening of URA’s annual tax return filing season, which began on Tuesday. The authority urged all taxpayers to submit their returns on time to avoid penalties and maintain good standing.
“Being tax compliant comes with smiles and handshakes from the taxman. File and pay your tax returns today before the deadline,” the authority said in a separate statement. “We listen, we don’t judge. All you have to do is file and pay your taxes before the deadline of the 15th of every month.”
New Incentives for Startups
In a further boost to the private sector, URA confirmed that the government has introduced a three-year income tax exemption for qualifying startups registered after July 1, 2025, with capital not exceeding UGX 500 million.
The measure, included in the latest tax amendments, is part of efforts to promote innovation and support Uganda’s growing startup ecosystem.
Towards a Seamless Digital Economy
The integration of the NIN with tax systems is part of Uganda’s broader digital transformation agenda, which seeks to consolidate government services under a single, interoperable digital identity framework.
By linking the NIN to tax administration, the government aims to enhance transparency, boost compliance, and expand the tax base without increasing the administrative burden on citizens.
The Tax Identification Number (TIN) has been used for decades to identify taxpayers in Uganda. The planned merger with the National Identification Number (NIN) represents one of the most significant reforms in Uganda’s public administration, aligning with Vision 2040’s goal of a fully digital economy.