News

FIRS Launches USSD Code 829# to Enhance Taxpayer Satisfaction, Ease of Business

Published

2 months ago

Oct 10, 2024.

To enhance the ease of doing business, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) launched an Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) Code, *829#, on Wednesday. The code aims to improve taxpayer satisfaction.

FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji introduced the code at the Revenue House in Abuja as part of this year’s Customer Service Week, themed “Above and Beyond.” With this initiative, Nigeria becomes the sixth African country to implement a USSD code for streamlining tax payment processes.

According to a statement from Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS Chairman, taxpayers on any mobile network in Nigeria can now contact FIRS in real-time regarding issues such as retrieving their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), verifying Tax Clearance Certificates (TCC), accessing information on tax types and rates, locating the nearest FIRS office, and obtaining answers to general tax-related inquiries.

During the launch, Adedeji emphasized that the instant messaging protocol underscores the agency’s commitment to simplifying tax administration, ensuring that “every taxpayer—whether in bustling cities or remote areas—can engage with FIRS seamlessly.” He encouraged taxpayers to take full advantage of the USSD code for all their inquiries.

EDITOR’S PICKS

“With the *829# USSD code, taxpayers can easily retrieve their TIN, verify their TCC, access information on tax types and rates, locate the nearest FIRS office, and get answers to general tax-related questions—all without requiring internet access. This technological advancement reflects our dedication to creating an efficient, transparent, and responsive tax system,” he stated.

Additionally, the FIRS introduced the Customer Centricity Guide, a booklet outlining policies, processes, and procedures designed to ensure that taxpayers are treated as ‘kings.’

FIRS

Adedeji remarked, “The unveiling of the Customer Centricity Guide underscores our commitment to putting taxpayers at the heart of our service delivery. It details the principles and values that will guide our interactions, ensuring that every engagement is characterized by respect, professionalism, and efficiency.

“This guide serves as a reminder that taxpayers are not just clients, but valued partners in nation-building. By combining the *829# USSD code and the Customer Centricity Guide, we are fostering a culture of service excellence, making tax compliance not merely a duty but a positive experience that encourages trust and voluntary participation.”