What is a Tax File Number or TFN?

A Tax File Number (TFN) is a nine-digit number that is your unique identifier with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Everyone has a different TFN. Your TFN is yours for life, even if you change jobs, move interstate or change your name. If you leave the country and later come back to Australia, you still use the same TFN.

You will need a TFN in order to transact with not only the ATO but also with many other Australian Government agencies. A TFN is required when:

• lodging a tax return
• starting working or changing jobs
• filling out a Tax File Number Declaration
• applying for an Australian Business Number (ABN) as a sole trader
• applying for income assistance or support payments through Centrelink or Department of Veterans’ Affairs
• claiming the Family Tax Benefit (FTB)
• applying for HECS-HELP
• making or receiving payments under PAYG withholding.

If you are working and do not have a TFN, your employer must take 47% of your pay in tax and any financial institution will also withhold 47% of any interest earned. Remember your TFN should only be used for taxation purposes and you need to protect it at all times.

Applying for a Tax File number

Apply at Australian Post

The ATO and Australia Post have removed much of the red tape when an individual applies for a TFN. TFN applications are now simpler and easier, as they can now be applied for online and have your identity verified at more than 460 Australia Post retail outlets throughout the country. To apply on line:

1. Fill in online form
2. Print the application summary
3. Visit a participating post office with your printed application summary and proof of identity documents within 30 days of printing. Find your nearest Australia Post outlet.
4. Parents and guardians can also apply for a TFN on behalf of their children.

Apply at an ATO shopfront

You can also apply in person at an ATO shopfront by completing the paper form Tax file number – application or enquiry for individuals.

You can get a copy of this form by:

• ordering online at the ATO
• phoning 1300 720 092
• asking for one from Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs if you're applying for a government benefit or pension.

You can make an appointment with an ATO Shopfront by phoning 13 28 61 between 8.00am and 6.00pm Monday to Friday

You should receive your TFN within 28 days after your interview. The ATO will mail your TFN to the postal address on your application.
If you are a secondary school student, the easiest way to get your TFN is via the Secondary Schools TFN Program. Contact your Careers Advisor, school office staff or ATO for further details.

Additional services also available at Australia Post are:

• Updating a date of birth on your ATO record
• Providing notification of a Deceased Person

If you have misplaced your Tax File Number, check any of the following documents first:

• Your income tax “Notice of Assessment” for a previous year
• Any PAYG Payment Summaries issued from either an Employer or other Government Agency
• Correspondence you have received from the ATO.
• Your Superannuation member statement

If you still cannot locate your TFN, contact the ATO directly by calling 13 28 61 between 8.00am and 6.00pm Monday to Friday.