How To Apply For A Tax File Number

A Tax File Number (TFN) is your personal reference number in the tax and superannuation systems.

This unique (usually 9 digit) number is legally required if you are employed in Australia and are above 15 years of age. Your TFN is yours for life, even if you change jobs, name, move interstate of go overseas. TFNs are provided by the Government through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
Here we explain how to apply for your TFN as an Australian or Non-Australian citizen.

Why do I need a TFN?

You don’t have to have a TFN, but without one, your employer or financial institution must withhold more tax from the payments they make to you.
Additionally, without a TFN you:

• Can’t apply for government benefits or allowances (JobSeeker)
• Can’t lodge your tax return online
• Can’t apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN)

Australian Citizen

Online Application

Applying for a TFN is free, and all Australian citizens with an Australian passport can apply for their TFN online using myGovID.

Eligibility to apply online:

• Be at least 15 years old
• Have an Australian passport – can be up to 3 years expired
• Have at least one other Australian identity document – ie. Drivers Licence, Medicare Card, Birth Certificate or Citizenship Certificate
• Set up a ‘Strong’ myGovID.

Applying with myGov – using the myGov website or app

1. Set up a myGovID account
2. Verify your ID on myGovID to a ‘Strong’ level using your Passport and one Australian identity document
3. Complete the TFN document

Applying this way will mean you receive your TFN straight away.

Apply at Australia Post

You can apply for your TFN at an Australia Post outlet by:

1. Completing the online form
2. Print the application – this includes your application reference number
3. Book an interview (within 30 days of application)
4. Attend the interview with your application summary and original proof of identity documents
5. Sign your application at the interview to complete the application

Applying through Australia Post can take up to 28 days.

Apply at a Services Australia Centre

If you are a services Australia customer (Centrelink, Medicare, etc.) you can apply for your TFN in person at one of the centres.

You will need to provide a paper TFN Application Form (available at the centre) and your proof of identity documents.

You will receive your TFN once the application is processed.

Apply via Post

If you’re unable to apply through any other available channels, you’ll need to complete a paper form. These forms are available on the ATO website, or by phoning the ATO.

Once you have completed the application, you must post it to the ATO with a certified copy of your identity document.

You will receive your TFN once it has been processed and mailed to you.

Non-Australian Citizen

Apply at Australia Post

You can apply for your TFN at an Australia Post outlet by:

1. Completing the online form
2. Print the application – this includes your application reference number
3. Book an interview (within 30 days of application)
4. Attend the interview with your application summary and original proof of identity documents
5. Sign your application at the interview to complete the application

Applying through Australia Post can take up to 28 days.

Apply at a Services Australia Centre

If you are a services Australia customer (Centrelink, Medicare, etc.) you can apply for your TFN in person at one of the centres.

You will need to provide a paper TFN Application Form (available at the centre) and your proof of identity documents.

You will receive your TFN once the application is processed.

Apply via Post

If you’re unable to apply through any other available channels, you’ll need to complete a paper form. These forms are available on the ATO website, or by phoning the ATO.

Once you have completed the application, you must post it to the ATO with a certified copy of your identity document.

You will receive your TFN once it has been processed and mailed to you.

Keeping your TFN safe

Your TFN is your unique number for life. Make sure you protect your identity by keeping your TFN safe. Only disclose your TFN to people and organisations that require it for legitimate reasons, such as:

• The ATO
• Your Employer
• Your Bank or Financial Institution
• Government Agencies to claim benefits
• Your Superannuation Fund
• Your University
• Your Accountant

If you need help applying for your TFN, contact our friendly team for assistance.