Post-Incorporation · 5 min read
SCUML & TIN - Why Your CAC Certificate Alone Isn't Enough
Most founders think CAC registration is the finish line. It's actually the start. Here's what you still need before any bank will take you seriously.
You finally have your CAC certificate. Congratulations - but you can't open a corporate bank account yet. Nigerian banks now require two more documents before they'll onboard your company: TIN and (for many sectors) SCUML.
TIN - Tax Identification Number
TIN is issued by FIRS and is your company's permanent tax ID. Without it: no corporate bank account, no government contract bids, no withholding tax credits, no import/export clearance.
- Auto-generated for new CAC registrations - but you must claim and activate it
- Required for VAT registration once turnover crosses ₦25M
- Required for any invoice you send to a corporate or government client
SCUML - Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering
SCUML certification is mandatory for Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs): consultants, NGOs, real estate, jewellery, car dealers, hotels, schools, supermarkets and many more. Banks will freeze or refuse to open your account without it.
- Issued by the EFCC's SCUML unit
- Required even if you're a one-person consultancy
- Renewable - and EFCC actively audits non-compliant businesses
Don't wait until your bank asks
Founders routinely come to AMG after their bank rejects the account opening - losing weeks of trading. We bundle CAC + TIN + SCUML in one workflow. Done-For-You or Do-It-Yourself - AMG handles or guides every step. Call/WhatsApp 07038857441, 08103483669, 08158014880 or email growwithaccolade@gmail.com / theaccoladesmedia@gmail.com. Join the WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBpOtL4IBhKWQtHSs3Z. Fees and timelines update through 2026 - confirm the latest with an AMG agent before paying.