TFN is a 9 digit unique number issued by the Australian Taxation Office. TFN stands for Tax File Number. Your Tax File Number (TFN) is your personal reference number in the tax and super systems. Your TFN is an important part of your tax and super records as well as your identity.
TFN is for life and even if you change your name or change jobs or move interstate or go overseas you would have the same TFN number.
How to apply
You can apply for the TFN visiting https://taxfilenumber.org/registration-form/
For you to apply for a TFN:
- You should already be in Australia.
- You should have a permanent migrant or temporary visitor visa or a visa with work rights or an overseas student visa.
- A valid Passport or relevant travel documents.
- An Email Address & Telephone number.
As a first step you have to fill out an online TFN application form available in the website. Once you complete the form you may submit it after rechecking on the information that you have provided. A dedicated tax agent from the ATO (Australian Taxation Office) will scrutinize your application; so, ensure that you fill the application error free. If the information that you provided matches the official requirements and if your registration is approved, you will get a confirmation email with all the necessary details and you will receive the Tax File Number in a few days’ time. This allows you to freely access your TFN from any location in Australia.
Category
The application for TFN differs based on your category. An Australian Residents' application form is different from a Foreign passport holders/permanent migrants and temporary visitors. So carefully choose the form that you need to fill.
Receiving TFN
You would generally receive your TFN in 14 days’ time. An on-call support would be available from Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 6.00pm. The number to dial is 13 28 61.
What if I don’t have a TFN?
If you don't have a TFN you pay more tax. You won't be able to apply for federal benefits, lodge your tax return electronically or get an Australian business number (ABN).
What if I lose my TFN?
Log in to your https://my.gov.au/ account to locate your TFN or look at a notice of assessment or payment summary you may have received. The Client Identity Support Centre is a support service for taxpayers who have had their identities stolen or misused.
