Australian Tax File Number FAQs

A tax file number (TFN) is a unique nine-digit number you will use to start work, open a bank account and apply for government benefits in Australia. You will also use it to file tax returns and claim tax refunds making it a very handy little number to have! Companies will require TFNs for the same reasons.

You will need a TFN if you plan to start working, so your employer can deduct the correct amount of income tax from your wages or salary. If you do not have a TFN you are likely to be taxed a higher rate and will not be able to claim any benefits you're entitled to. You will also need a TFN to set up a bank account, change jobs or claim a tax refund.

If you do not have a TFN you will still be able to work in Australia, however, you will be taxed at the higher emergency tax rate instead of the usual lower rate of tax. You will also not be able to claim any benefits you're entitled to from the Australian Government.

Any person or company that wishes to work in Australia, claim a tax refund, file a tax return or open a bank account. It is not compulsory to have one but you will pay tax at higher rate without one.

If you are currently in Australia or you are planning to go there soon, you will need to provide the number of your passport and your Australian visa.

If you are not going to Australia soon, you will need to provide TWO certified* copies of identification, such as a passport or birth cert and one other type of identification.

First thing's first – no need to panic. There are lots of ways you can find it. You will be able to find your TFN on:

• your income tax notice of assessment
• any correspondence the ATO has sent you
• a payment summary, for example, from your employer
• your superannuation member statement

If you still can't find it, don't worry. Just call the ATO on 13 28 61 or +61 2 6216 1111 from overseas. Just remember you will need some information to prove your identity to the ATO.

It usually takes us less than 10 days to get you your TFN after we receive your application. In a very small number of cases it can take up to 28 days.

Yes of course you can. Simply complete our registration and then send us the following:

• Copy of ID or TFN of parent or guardian;
• Copy of ID of the child or dependant;
• Statement showing your relationship (e.g. birth certificate or guardianship papers)

Once we receive this, we will then contact you and explain how you can complete your application.