Many taxpayers in Bangladesh registered for an e-TIN for specific, one-off needs—such as opening a bank account, taking out a bank loan, or enabling Facebook monetization—without realizing it would bind them to mandatory annual return filings.
Failing to submit returns can trigger penalties ranging from Tk3,000 to Tk5,000, turning the certificate into a major burden for those with no taxable income or business activity.
If you need to cancel your e-TIN, here is a complete guide on eligibility, required documents, and the step-by-process.
When can you cancel an e-TIN?
The National Board of Revenue (NBR) considers specific grounds for cancellation:
- Business closure: If a business or enterprise is permanently shut down.
- Duplicate TINs: If a taxpayer accidentally registered for multiple e-TINs (one active TIN must be retained while the extra ones are canceled).
- No further requirement: If the TIN was taken for a specific temporary purpose and is no longer needed.
- Income below the taxable threshold: If your income has dropped below the legal taxable limit and you no longer wish to maintain a TIN.
- Non-resident Bangladeshis: If a citizen is living abroad long-term and has no taxable income within Bangladesh.
- Death of the taxpayer: If a taxpayer passes away, legal heirs can apply for cancellation (provided the TIN is not tied to an active ongoing business or complex legacy operations).
Required documents for cancellation
Before visiting your tax office, prepare the following paperwork:
- Printed copy of your e-TIN certificate.
- Photocopy of your National Identity Card (NID).
- Proof of zero returns: Acknowledgement receipts showing submission of zero-income returns for the past three consecutive years (note: tax authorities typically require filing zero returns for three consecutive years prior to applying for formal cancellation).
- Supporting evidence: Documents validating your reason for cancellation (e.g., trade license cancellation papers if a business closed, death certificate in case of a deceased taxpayer, etc.).
Step-by-step cancellation procedure
- Locate Your Tax Circle: Look at your e-TIN certificate to identify your designated Taxes Circle and Tax Zone. You must visit your specific regional tax office, as direct online cancellations are currently limited.
- Draft a Written Application: Write a formal application addressed to the Deputy Commissioner of Taxes of your respective circle.
- What to include: State when you opened the e-TIN, why you opened it, and a clear, valid reason for cancellation (e.g., business closure, drop in income below taxable limits, or permanent relocation abroad).
- Submit the Application in Person: Visit your tax circle office and submit your written application along with all required supporting documents.
- Verification & Approval: Tax officials will review and verify your documents. Cancellation is only official once approved by the authorities. Once approved, you will receive written confirmation via letter.
