Education & Employment
How to get a tax file number
Anyone who works or earns money in Australia must have a tax file number (TFN). Follow the steps below to get one.
Outcome
To apply for a tax file number
Let's start with why this is important:
- anyone who works or earns money in Australia must have a tax file number (TFN)
- without a TFN you pay more tax and you will not be able to apply for Centrelink
Information
For video transcript click here.
A tax file number (TFN) is free and identifies you for tax and superannuation purposes. It's yours for life. You keep the same TFN even if you change your name, change jobs, move interstate or go overseas. If your details change, you need to let us know.
You will need identify documents such as a passport, license, Medicare card.
What to do next
Apply for a TFN
How you apply for a TFN depends on your circumstances. Choose from one of the following to find out about the application options for:
- Australian citizens with an Australian passport (beta) – for people who are 15 years old or older.
- Australian residents – for Australian citizens and other people who are residents of Australia for tax purposes but don't have an Australian passport.
- Foreign passport holders, permanent migrants and temporary visitors – you need to already be living in Australia and will need a valid foreign passport or travel document (visa).
- People living outside Australia – for non-residents of Australia for tax purposes with Australian sourced income. You need a TFN to claim a refund of tax withheld.
If you are unsure of your residency status, go to – Your tax residency.
Apply for a TFN online
To apply for a TFN online using myGovID, you need to:
- be 15 years old or older
- have an Australian passport – it can be up to 3 years expired
- have at least one other Australian identity document – for example, a driver’s licence.
You will also need to set up a Strong myGovID.
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