Tax File Number Australia: What It Is and How to Apply
A tax file number is a free, 9-digit personal reference number you need for tax, super and most jobs in Australia. You can apply online, at Australia Post or by paper, and your tax file number usually arrives within 28 days once the ATO receives your completed application.
What Is a Tax File Number and Why Do You Need One?
A tax file number (TFN) is your personal reference number in the Australian tax and superannuation systems, and you keep the same one for life.
You will usually need to give your TFN to your employer, your bank, your superannuation fund, government agencies if you claim benefits such as JobSeeker, and your university if you have a HELP debt. According to the Australian Taxation Office, your TFN is free to apply for and can be found on your notice of assessment, an employer income statement, or in your ATO online account.
How Do You Apply for a Tax File Number in Australia?
There are four ways to apply for a tax file number in Australia, and all of them are free.
The method that suits you depends on whether you already have a Digital ID and whether you would rather apply online or in person:
Application method | Who it suits | What you need | |
Online with a Digital ID (myID) | Fastest option, if you are 15 or older with a Strong identity strength | A Digital ID such as myID | |
Australia Post | No Digital ID yet | Complete the online form, print the summary, then visit a participating outlet within 30 days with original ID documents | |
Services Australia centre | Prefer to apply in person | Paper form NAT 1432 (or NAT 1589 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants) plus original ID documents | |
By post | Can't visit in person | Form NAT 1432 plus certified copies (not originals) of your ID documents |
Australian residents can apply for a tax file number at any age using the in-person or paper options, though the online Digital ID option requires you to be at least 15.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Tax File Number?
Most applicants receive their tax file number within 28 days of the ATO receiving a completed application.
For the Australia Post route specifically, the ATO says you should receive your TFN within 28 days from when your completed application is received, once Australia Post has sighted your identity documents. If it has been longer than 28 days and you still haven't received a TFN notification letter, contact the ATO directly.
What Happens If You Don't Give Your Employer a Tax File Number?
Without a tax file number, your employer or bank must withhold more tax from payments made to you, and several government services become unavailable.
The ATO confirms that if you don't provide a TFN, your employer or financial institution must withhold more tax than usual from your pay or interest. On top of that, you can't apply for government benefits such as JobSeeker, you can't lodge your tax return online, and you can't apply for an Australian business number (ABN) without one.
How Do You Keep Your Tax File Number Safe?
Treat your tax file number like a password and only share it with organisations that are legally entitled to ask for it.
Employers, banks, super funds and the ATO are allowed to request it, but you should be cautious about anyone else asking. If your TFN is lost, stolen or misused, tell the ATO as soon as possible so it can help protect your account.
If you are setting up a new job or lodging your first return, Tax Falcon can help you get your tax file number details right from the start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tax file number used for?
A tax file number is used to identify you in the Australian tax and superannuation systems. You need it for your tax return, your employer, your bank, your super fund, and some government benefits.
How do I apply for a tax file number in Australia?
You can apply for a tax file number online with a Digital ID such as myID, in person at Australia Post or a Services Australia centre, or by posting a paper form. All methods are free.
How long does it take to get a tax file number?
Most applicants receive their tax file number within 28 days of the ATO receiving a completed application. Contact the ATO if it has been longer than that.
Is it free to apply for a tax file number?
Yes, applying for a tax file number is free through every application method, including online, Australia Post, Services Australia and by post.
What happens if I don't give my employer my tax file number?
Your employer must withhold more tax from your pay than usual, and you also won't be able to claim certain government benefits or lodge your tax return online.
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