Registering for an RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes) is a mandatory process for every adult in Mexico, including those who do not yet earn any income. So if you’re getting started in your freelance career, you should apply for it.

But what is the RFC, and how do you get it for the first time?

RFC stands for “Registro Federal de Contribuyentes” (Federal Taxpayer Registry), an alphanumeric code assigned by the SAT (Tax Administration Service). In this post, we’ll delve into its definition, use, and how to obtain it.

Take note!

RFC in Mexico: Step-by-Step Guide to Getting It for the First Time

RFC for Individuals: Definition and Purpose

The Registro Federal de Contribuyentes (RFC) is a unique identifier in Mexico that registers the tax obligations of individuals. The code has 13 alphanumeric characters, typically composed of:

• Initials from the given name and surnames

• Date of birth

• Additional digits assigned by the SAT

This registration is a legal requirement that facilitates various essential procedures to manage your business efficiently.

What Is the RFC For?

Beyond meeting tax obligations in the country as a freelancer, the RFC serves multiple purposes for your career:

• Tax compliance: Protects you during possible SAT audits by keeping your tax records in order.

• Tax returns: Lets you file and pay taxes as an individual with business activities.

• Bank accounts: Typically required to open bank accounts in Mexico for receiving payments and managing finances.

• Activity formalization: Grants access to government programs and eligibility for projects that require tax compliance.

• Invoices: Enables issuing valid CFDI invoices for your services and formalizing your income with the SAT.

In other words, having the RFC on hand is key to operating professionally as a freelancer—and it also benefits you for a host of needs within the country.

How to Get an RFC for the First Time: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before applying for your RFC for the first time, note these points:

• The RFC application is free.

• You must be 18 or older.

• You can do this either online or in person, according to the SAT’s website.

How to Get an RFC Online

This process requires no physical documentation, and you can obtain your RFC with your CURP by following these steps:

1. Go to the SAT portal and under “RFC Procedures”, choose “Register in the RFC as an individual”.

2. Enter your CURP and provide the requested details, such as your name, surnames, and address.

3. Submit your request.

Note: Online, you can only perform the pre-registration of the RFC and schedule your appointment. You must still complete the registration in person at an SAT office.

How to Schedule Your RFC Appointment?

To finalize the in-person procedure, gather the following documents:

• CURP

• Birth certificate

• Official and valid ID

• Recent proof of address

Bring both originals and copies.

Now, the steps are:

1. Go to the SAT’s pre-registration page and click “Start Online” to fill out the form.

2. Schedule your appointment at the nearest SAT office.

3. On your appointment date, visit the office with the required documents to finish enrolling and get your RFC.

Already have an RFC but lost it?

Don’t worry—through the system, you can retrieve certificates on its portal, so you can print your RFC again.

Final Words

As a freelancer, it’s vital to have an RFC simply because it’s a legal requirement if you receive income from your services. Plus, with this ID, you can handle your economic activities in a more formal and professional way—thus avoiding tax complications and enjoying the related advantages.

We also remind you that if you don’t want to be penalized or fined, you must avoid filing your annual return with the SAT late.

Finally, we advise you to try DolarApp if you need a practical and efficient solution for handling earnings in foreign currency. With us, you can receive international payments or transfer digital dollars at a fixed fee of 3 USDc per transaction.

We also maintain a fair exchange rate for your currency conversions.

FAQs

How can I find out what my RFC is?

You can look up your RFC by entering the SAT’s portal under “RFC Procedures”. You’ll need your CURP to generate or confirm it if you’ve already registered.

How to get an RFC without going to the SAT?

The official SAT website gives you the option of a CURP-based online RFC pre-registration. However, sooner or later, you’ll have to schedule an in-person appointment to complete it.

What if I register for an RFC without having an economic activity yet?

When you sign up for the RFC without any current economic activities, you’re added to the SAT database but have no tax obligations. These obligations only kick in once you start earning income or performing formal economic activities.