Live in Mowe, Work in Ikeja? Where Your PAYE Tax Really Goes
Hello, my hard-working in-law! Hoi Li here. I see you every morning, crossing the Berger bridge, fighting the traffic from Mowe or Ibafo to get to your office in Ikeja or Victoria Island.
You are part of the 'Border Crosser' workforce, and there's a big question you probably haven't asked: Which state actually owns your tax? With Ogun State currently beating Lagos in search interest (+100 for Ogun vs 88 for Lagos), the confusion is everywhere.
The Golden Rule: Where You Sleep is Where You Pay
Under the Nigerian tax law (PITA), your income tax (PAYE) belongs to the state where you are resident. If you sleep in Mowe (Ogun State) but work in Ikeja (Lagos State), your tax belongs to Ogun State. It doesn't matter if your company's headquarters is in a skyscraper on Lagos Island.
Why This Matters for the 2026 Reform
With the new NRS (Nigeria Revenue Service) system, states are getting better at identifying where you live. If your company is wrongly remitting your tax to Lagos while you're enjoying Ogun State roads and security, you might face issues when trying to get a Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) for your 'Japa' plans or a bank loan.
Hoi Li's Residency Checklist:
- Check your Payslip: Does it say 'LIRS' (Lagos) or 'OGIRS' (Ogun)?
- Update your HR: Make sure they have your correct home address.
- Get your TCC: Apply from the state where you live, not where you work.
Don't let them 'double-tax' you or ignore your residency. You deserve the services of the state where you pay! Stay smart, in-law!