Tax

How to Get a TFN in Australia

A Tax File Number (TFN) is a unique 9-digit number issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). You need it to work, open a bank account (to avoid paying top tax rate on interest), and lodge a tax return. Applying is free and takes about 10 minutes online.

Step-by-Step Guide

Check you do not already have a TFN

If you have worked in Australia before, applied for a tax return, or opened a bank account and provided a TFN, you already have one. Check your bank account details, previous payslips, or any notice of assessment from the ATO. If you cannot find it, call the ATO on 13 28 61 and they will verify your identity and tell you your TFN.

Gather your documents

You need: your passport (Australian or foreign), your visa (if you are not a citizen), and your Australian residential address. If you are applying from outside Australia, you can still apply if you have a visa. Students on a subclass 500 visa can and should apply for a TFN.

Apply online at iorder.com.au

Go to iorder.com.au (the ATO's online TFN application portal) or visit ato.gov.au/individuals/tax-file-number/apply-for-a-tfn. Fill in the online form with your personal details, passport number, visa details, and address. The form takes about 10 minutes. There is no fee — TFN applications are always free.

Wait for your TFN to arrive

Your TFN is sent by mail to your Australian address. It typically arrives within 28 days (up to 6 weeks for new arrivals). If you are applying from outside Australia, it may take longer. If you have not received it after 28 days, call the ATO on 13 28 61.

Give your TFN to your employer and bank

Once you have your TFN, give it to your employer (so they deduct the correct amount of tax from your pay) and to your bank (so they do not withhold 47% tax on your interest). You can also give it to your superannuation fund. You do not have to give your TFN to your employer, but if you do not, they must withhold tax at the maximum rate (47%).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a TFN free to apply for?▾

Yes, applying for a TFN is completely free. Anyone who charges you to apply for a TFN is scamming you. Apply directly at ato.gov.au or iorder.com.au. If someone asks for payment to get you a TFN, report them to the ATO.

Do international students need a TFN?▾

Yes. If you work in Australia (even part-time on a student visa), you need a TFN so your employer can deduct the correct tax. Without a TFN, your employer must withhold tax at 47%. Students who are residents for tax purposes get the $18,200 tax-free threshold. Apply for a TFN as soon as you arrive in Australia.

What happens if I lose my TFN?▾

Your TFN is yours for life — it never changes. If you lose it, call the ATO on 13 28 61. They will verify your identity (using your passport, date of birth, and address) and tell you your TFN over the phone. You can also find it on: your bank account details, previous payslips, your myGov account, or any notice of assessment.

Can I work without a TFN in Australia?▾

You can work without a TFN, but your employer must withhold tax at the maximum rate of 47% from your pay. This means you lose nearly half your income to tax. You can claim this back at tax time by lodging a tax return, but it is much better to get a TFN and have the correct amount deducted from the start.

How long does it take to get a TFN?▾

It typically takes 28 days for your TFN to arrive by mail after applying online. If you have not received it after 28 days, call the ATO on 13 28 61. New arrivals may need to wait up to 6 weeks because the ATO verifies visa details with the Department of Home Affairs.

Official Sources & References

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