Where to Find Your TIN in Canada (SIN, BN, ITN Guide 2026)
You can find your Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Canada on official documents such as your tax return, Notice of Assessment, CRA letters, or business registration records. Individuals use a Social Insurance Number (SIN), while businesses use a Business Number (BN), and non-residents use an Individual Tax Number (ITN).
Canada does not use a single TIN. Instead, different numbers apply depending on your situation. This guide shows exactly where to find each type and what to do if you lose it.
Where to Find Your TIN in Canada (Quick Overview)
| TIN Type | Where to Find It | Who Uses It |
|---|---|---|
| SIN | Tax returns, Notice of Assessment, SIN letter, employer records | Individuals |
| BN | CRA business account, invoices, tax filings, registration documents | Businesses |
| ITN | CRA letters, tax filings, accountant records | Non-residents |
Where to Find Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
The SIN is the main tax identifier for individuals in Canada.
- SIN confirmation letter (from Service Canada)
- Income tax returns (T1 forms)
- Notice of Assessment from the CRA
- Employer records (pay slips, contracts)
Important: SIN cards are no longer issued. If lost, you must retrieve it from documents or request confirmation.
Where to Find Your Business Number (BN)
The Business Number (BN) identifies your business for tax purposes.
- CRA business account (online portal)
- Business registration documents
- Invoices and accounting software
- GST/HST returns
BN Format Example
123456789 RT0001
- 123456789 → core business number
- RT → tax program (GST/HST)
- 0001 → account ID
Where to Find Your Individual Tax Number (ITN)
The ITN is used by non-residents who cannot obtain a SIN.
- CRA confirmation letter
- Filed tax returns
- Documents from your accountant
What If You Lost Your TIN?
| TIN Type | How to Recover It |
|---|---|
| SIN | Check old tax returns or request confirmation from Service Canada |
| BN | Log into CRA Business Account or contact CRA |
| ITN | Review tax filings or contact CRA directly |
Can You Look Up Your TIN Online?
- SIN: Not publicly accessible for security reasons
- BN: Available through secure CRA login
- ITN: Only via CRA records
How to Verify Your TIN (Important)
Using an incorrect TIN can cause rejected filings or compliance issues.
- Check correct format (typically 9 digits)
- Ensure correct type (SIN vs ITN)
- Avoid typing errors
Businesses often use automated tools to validate TINs and reduce risk.
When Do You Need Your TIN?
- Filing tax returns
- Starting a job
- Opening bank accounts
- Registering a business
- Accessing government services
Common Mistakes
- Confusing SIN with a universal TIN
- Losing official documents
- Using incorrect or outdated numbers
FAQs
Where can I find my SIN?
On tax returns, CRA notices, and SIN confirmation letters.
Where can I find my BN?
On CRA documents, invoices, and your business account.
What if I lost my TIN?
You can recover it via Service Canada (SIN) or the CRA (BN, ITN).
Can I find my TIN online?
Only BN is accessible through secure accounts.
Key Takeaways
- Canada uses multiple TINs: SIN, BN, ITN
- Your TIN is found on official documents
- Always store your TIN securely
- Recover it through CRA or Service Canada if lost
Conclusion
Knowing where to find your TIN in Canada helps you avoid delays, errors, and compliance issues. Always use official documents and keep your information secure.