Australian Tax File Number (TFN)

A Tax File Number (TFN) is a unique 9 digit number the Australian Government uses to identify you for tax and superannuation purposes.

You’ll need a TFN take up work, open a bank account, switch jobs, join a superannuation fund, apply for Government benefits, file a tax return or claim a tax refund.

If you don’t have a TFN, you may be taxed a higher rate and won’t be able to claim any benefits. You’ll also need a TFN to change jobs or claim a tax refund.

If you don't have a TFN, you risk having the high rate of emergency tax applied to your earnings. You'll be able to work in Australia, but you won't have much disposable income!

You won't be able to claim any benefits or tax deductions you're entitled to either.

Any person or company that wants to work in Australia, claim a tax refund, file a tax return or open a bank account.

If you’re already in Australia or are planning to go there soon, you’ll need your passport number and your Australian visa number.

If you’re not going to Australia anytime soon, you’ll need to provide TWO certified copies of identification, such as a passport or birth cert and one other type of identification.

You can find your TFN on:

• Your income tax notice of assessment
• Any correspondence from the Australian Tax Office (ATO)
• A payment summary
• Your superannuation member statement

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

It usually takes us less than 10 days to get you your TFN once we have your application. Sometimes it can take up to 28 days, but not usually.

Yes you can. Simply complete our registration and 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 these, we’ll contact you to explain how you can complete your application.