By Newswire Editorial
Approximately 4 million Sri Lankans aged 18 and above are yet to register for a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), according to Inland Revenue Department (IRD) Commissioner Nandana Kumara.
Speaking during an Ada Derana televised interview, Kumara said around 13 million individuals have already registered for TIN numbers, out of an estimated adult population of 17 million in Sri Lanka.
He pointed out that under the existing law, all individuals aged 18 and above are required to obtain a TIN number, although the requirement had previously been enforced only for certain essential purposes.
The Commissioner also sought to address public concerns regarding TIN registration, clarifying that obtaining a TIN number does not automatically mean an individual is required to pay taxes.
He said misconceptions surrounding the registration process had created unnecessary fear among the public, with some concerns still persisting.
Kumara emphasised that the legal requirement for TIN registration was introduced to streamline and improve the country’s taxation system.
He reiterated that while registration is mandatory for adults, tax payments are required only from individuals who meet the relevant tax liability criteria. (Newswire)