ZRA tax registration is not just a requirement — it’s the foundation of operating a legal and credible business in Zambia. Whether you’re running a small startup or a growing company, getting a Taxpayer Identification Number (TPIN) and understanding your obligations to the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) is essential.
📌 What Is the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA)?
The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) is the government agency responsible for collecting taxes and enforcing tax laws in Zambia. ZRA plays a critical role in funding national development through tax revenue. In 2023, ZRA collected over K119 billion in tax revenue, contributing over 70% of the national budget according to the Ministry of Finance.
🧾 What Is a TPIN and Why Is It Mandatory?
A Taxpayer Identification Number (TPIN) is a unique number issued by ZRA to identify individuals and businesses for tax purposes.
You are required to register for a TPIN if:
- You are registering a business name or company with PACRA.
- You want to open a bank account for your business.
- You are importing or exporting goods.
- You are applying for a tender or doing business with the government.
- You intend to be VAT registered, or need to submit tax returns.
No TPIN, no business. It’s that critical.
⚖️ What Taxes Does a Business Need to Understand?
Once registered with ZRA, you may be liable for several types of taxes depending on your business activity:
| Tax Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Income Tax | Tax on profits (corporate or individual) |
| Turnover Tax | For small businesses with annual turnover < K800,000 |
| VAT | Value Added Tax (16%) if your business earns above K800,000 annually |
| PAYE | “Pay As You Earn” for employees |
| Withholding Tax | Deducted on rental income, consultancy fees, etc. |
Failure to comply may result in penalties, interest charges, and even business suspension.
📂 What You Need to Register for a TPIN
To apply for a TPIN with ZRA, you need:
- PACRA Certificate of Incorporation or Business Name Certificate
- NRC or Passport (for individuals and directors)
- Company physical address
- Business bank account details
- Email address and phone contact
- Board Resolution (for companies)
Application is done online via the ZRA TaxOnline platform: https://www.zra.org.zm
💼 How Latola Financial Services Can Help
Navigating ZRA processes can be time-consuming and confusing. At Latola Financial Services, we take the stress off your plate by:
✅ Registering your business for TPIN
✅ Explaining which taxes apply to your business
✅ Handling monthly or annual tax returns
✅ Ensuring you’re ZRA compliant to avoid penalties
✅ Offering tailored compliance packages for startups, SMEs, and agencies
💡 Key Takeaway
ZRA tax registration is non-negotiable if you want to operate a legal and successful business in Zambia. Avoid fines, delays, and disqualification from tenders by getting registered and staying compliant.
Let Latola help you get started — professionally and efficiently.
📞 Call us today or 📧 email us at sales@latolafinance.com to register your business with ZRA hassle-free.
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