Foreign Tax Identifying Number (FTIN) - Canada Tax ID
Are you a foreigner doing business in Canada? The Canadian Tax ID (FTIN): What is it? Where can I find it? How do I apply for one?
This comprehensive guide will teach you how to apply for a Canadian Tax Identification Number (TIN).
A TIN is a combination of letters or numbers a country assigns to an individual or business for tax purposes.
In Canada, the TIN will be an individual’s Social Insurance Number (SIN).
For businesses (such as corporations or partnerships), the TIN will be their Business Number (BN) of the Quebec Enterprise Number (NEQ).
It is important to get the correct Canadian foreign tax identifying number.
What is the Canada tax ID (FTIN)
A TIN is a 9-digit number issued to non-resident individuals in Canada who need a tax identification number.
Canada tax ID is for people who are not eligible for a Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN) and are considered non-residents for tax purposes.
Canada tax identification numbers exist in various forms and are issued to residents and non-residents.
Every resident with income tax filing obligations must have a SIN.
As a non-resident doing business, you need to have a Canadian foreign tax identification number.
The basics
You may apply for an individual tax number at any time, but I recommend applying early to ensure you receive your TIN before using it.
Please allow six to eight weeks for the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to notify you in writing after receiving your application.
When you apply for a Canada tax ID, you must provide supporting documents to verify your identity with the CRA.
These documents must be current and include your name, date of birth, and photograph.
A valid passport, driver’s licence, study permit, or government-issued ID card may be supporting documents in an application for a Canada individual tax number.
Obtaining a Canadian tax ID number is not a complicated process.
If, like me, you are a British ex-pat looking to minimise the amount of tax you pay, I recommend that you read this article on the UK-Canada tax treaty.
TIN application with the CRA
When filling out the application form, it is vital to be thorough.
Check the box for why you are applying, to avoid processing delays.
Check the box for the supporting documents that you will include.
If your mailing and foreign address are different, you must provide both.
Provide the date and your signature in the certification section.
When gathering your documents for a Canada tax ID application, you must include your printed application form and the original, certified, and notarized copies of your supporting documents.
Then you mail your application for a Canada tax identification number.
If you have not heard from the CRA in eight weeks, contact them and inquire about your tax ID application status.
What you should do next
I am fortunate to have an expert team who provides tax-saving advice.
When it comes to a Canada tax ID, they have been invaluable in helping me.
A Canadian Tax ID (TIN Number) is a unique identifier assigned by the CRA to individuals and businesses for tax purposes.
You can find your Canadian Tax ID on tax documents such as notices of assessment or correspondence from the CRA.
Individuals can apply for a Tax ID by completing Form T1261 for an Individual Tax Number (ITN) through the CRA's online services or by mail.
