Am I eligible for a Tax File Number?
All Australian residents can apply for a TFN online.
Please note: This application applies to Australian residents only. If you live outside Australia, or are a permanent migrant or temporary visitor, visit the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website for more information.
How to apply
- Visit the ATO website to complete the online application form.
- Print the application summary and gather your required identity documents to present at a participating Post Office.
- Find a participating Post Office near you. Only selected Post Offices accept TFN applications.
- To complete your application, you must visit a participating Post Office within 30 days of submitting your online application form. Don't forget to bring along your application summary and required identity documents.
You should receive your TFN within 28 days after your visit to the Post Office. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will mail your TFN to the postal address on your application. Your patience during the processing period is appreciated. Please do not lodge another application during this time.
More information
Visit the following pages on the ATO website:
Alternatively, you can contact the ATO on 13 28 61 between 8am and 6pm (EST), Monday to Friday.
Frequently asked questions
It isn't compulsory to have a TFN. However, if you don't have one, you may have too much tax withheld or be unable to receive government benefits to which you're entitled.
For further information, refer to the Australian Taxation Office website.
No, there is no fee for a TFN application. Any Australian resident can apply for a TFN at no cost.
A tax file number (TFN) is a unique 9 digit number issued to individuals and organisations to administer tax and other Australian government systems.
For further information, refer to the Australian Taxation Office website.
You can find out which identity documents are required via the online form, or view details on the Australian Taxation Office website.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will mail your TFN to the postal address on your application within 28 days after your visit to the Post Office. Your patience during the processing period is appreciated. Do not lodge another application during this time.
If you don't receive your TFN after 28 days, contact the ATO on 13 28 61 between 8am and 6pm EST, Monday to Friday.
2 Australia Post Consumer Segmentation Quant W7 Jun’23
3 The Delivery Experience Report – Data & Insights (2021)
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