A Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) is one of the most important documents for individuals and businesses in Nigeria. Whether you’re applying for a government contract, loan, visa, or corporate opportunity, a valid TCC is often mandatory.
Unfortunately, many Nigerians experience delays, rejections, or penalties when applying — mostly due to poor documentation or unresolved tax issues.
At Faturoti Taiwo & Co. (FTandCo.), we help clients obtain their Tax Clearance Certificates quickly and correctly, without unnecessary stress. This guide explains what a TCC is, who needs it, and how to get it fast in Nigeria.
What Is a Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC)?
A Tax Clearance Certificate is an official document issued by the tax authority confirming that an individual or business has fully complied with tax obligations for the last three years (or since commencement of business).
It proves that:
✔ Taxes have been correctly filed
✔ Taxes have been paid or assessed
✔ There are no outstanding liabilities
Who Needs a Tax Clearance Certificate in Nigeria?
You need a TCC if you are:
- A business owner or company director
- Applying for government contracts or tenders
- Opening or renewing a corporate bank account
- Applying for loans or grants
- Processing expatriate quotas
- Applying for visas
- Bidding for large private-sector contracts
Both individuals and corporate entities are required to present TCCs in many official transactions.
Which Authority Issues Tax Clearance Certificates?
- Companies obtain TCCs from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)
- Individuals, sole proprietors, and partnerships obtain TCCs from their State Internal Revenue Service (SIRS) (e.g., LIRS in Lagos)
Understanding where to apply is critical to avoiding delays.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Tax Clearance Certificate Quickly
Step 1: Ensure Proper Tax Registration
Before applying, confirm that you are:
- Registered with the relevant tax authority
- Issued a valid Tax Identification Number (TIN)
Unregistered taxpayers cannot be issued a TCC.
Step 2: File All Outstanding Tax Returns
One of the biggest causes of delays is unfiled tax returns.
You must file:
- Company Income Tax (for companies)
- Personal Income Tax (for individuals)
- PAYE returns (if applicable)
- VAT and Withholding Tax returns
Even if no tax is due, nil returns must still be filed.
Step 3: Pay or Reconcile Outstanding Tax Liabilities
Any unpaid tax, penalties, or interest must be:
- Paid in full or
- Formally assessed and agreed with the tax authority
FTandCo. helps clients reconcile disputed assessments to prevent overpayment.
Step 4: Submit a TCC Application
Applications typically require:
- Formal application letter
- Evidence of tax payments
- Filed tax returns
- CAC documents (for companies)
- Valid identification
Submitting incomplete documentation is the fastest way to delay approval.
Step 5: Follow Up and Resolve Queries Promptly
Tax authorities may raise queries or request additional documents.
Prompt responses help speed up:
✔ Verification
✔ Approval
✔ Issuance of the certificate
Professional follow-up significantly reduces processing time.
How Long Does It Take to Get a TCC?
- Standard processing: 2–6 weeks
- With proper preparation and professional support: As fast as 7–14 working days
The timeline depends on:
- Accuracy of records
- Tax compliance history
- Responsiveness to queries
Common Mistakes That Delay TCC Approval
❌ Incomplete tax filings
❌ Incorrect taxpayer details
❌ Unpaid assessments
❌ Poor record-keeping
❌ Applying to the wrong tax authority
Avoiding these mistakes can save weeks of delay.
How Faturoti Taiwo & Co. Helps You Get Your TCC Faster
At FTandCo., we provide end-to-end TCC support, including:
✔ Tax compliance review
✔ Filing outstanding returns
✔ Tax reconciliation and negotiation
✔ Application preparation and submission
✔ Follow-up with tax authorities
✔ Fast-track processing support
We handle the process professionally — so you don’t have to chase files or worry about rejections.
Why Choose FTandCo.?
Clients trust us because we offer:
- Deep understanding of Nigerian tax laws
- Strong working knowledge of FIRS and State IRS processes
- Accurate documentation
- Proactive communication
- Fast and reliable service
Our goal is simple: help you stay compliant and move forward without delays.
A Tax Clearance Certificate is not just a formality — it’s a gateway to business growth and credibility in Nigeria.
With proper preparation and expert support from Faturoti Taiwo & Co., you can obtain your TCC quickly, correctly, and without stress.
Need a Tax Clearance Certificate urgently?
Contact Faturoti Taiwo & Co. today for professional assistance.