A tax file number (TFN) identifies you for tax and superannuation
purposes. You keep the same TFN even if you change your name, change jobs, move
interstate or go overseas.
A tax file number (TFN) is free. You can apply for a TFN if you’re an
Australian resident, that is if you fit one of the following:
• were born in Australia
• have taken out Australian citizenship
• are an Australian resident for tax purposes.
Apply with myGovID
Australian citizens with an Australian passport can now apply for a TFN online using myGovID.
Apply at Australia Post
You can apply for your TFN at a participating Australia Post retail outlet if you’re able to attend an interview. There is no fee for lodging your TFN application with Australia Post.
To apply through Australia Post, you need to:
• Complete the online form
• Print the application summary, which will include your application reference number.
• Book your interview at a participating Australia Post outlet within 30 days of completing your online form.
• Attend your interview and take your application summary and original proof of identity documents to the interview.
• Sign your application at Australia Post at your interview to complete your TFN application.
You should receive your TFN within 28 days from when we receive your completed application and the required documents have been sighted by Australia Post.
Apply at Services Australia
You can apply in person at a Services Australia service centre by completing a paper form – Tax file number – application or enquiry for individuals (NAT 1432) if you’re:
- a Services Australia customer
- unable to get a Strong myGovID online or
- unable to apply at Australia Post
To apply at Services Australia, you can:
- Get a copy of the form by ordering online or Services Australia can provide you with the form.
- provide your original proof of identity documents
See the application instructions for the proof of identity documents you
need to provide.
If you have authorised Centrelink to receive your TFN from the ATO, select “To give to Centrelink” as your reason for needing a TFN.
Once processed, the ATO will send your TFN to both you and Centrelink.
Apply by post
If you can’t apply via any of the other available channels, you’ll need to complete a paper form.
You can get a copy of the paper form by either:
• ATO Publication Ordering Service – Tax file number – application or enquiry for individuals (NAT 1432)
• Order ATO publications service by phone – 1300 720 092.
Send your completed TFN application and certified copies of your proof of identity documents to the address listed on the form.
Note: Don’t send your original identity documents to the ATO as they may not be returned to you.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who don’t have enough documents to sufficiently identify themselves may need to complete an alternative paper form.