Taxpayer Identification Number

Definition ∞ A Taxpayer Identification Number, or TIN, is a unique numerical identifier assigned to individuals or entities by a government for the purpose of tracking tax obligations and payments. This number serves as a key reference for tax authorities to administer and enforce tax laws. It is a fundamental component of financial record-keeping and reporting. Different countries have their own specific forms of TINs.
Context ∞ In the digital asset sphere, the collection and utilization of a Taxpayer Identification Number are integral to Know Your Customer, or KYC, and Anti-Money Laundering, or AML, regulations. Cryptocurrency exchanges and service providers are increasingly required to obtain TINs from their users. News often covers regulatory mandates aimed at enhancing transparency in crypto transactions through the use of these identifiers. This enables tax authorities to monitor digital asset activities and ensure compliance.