After submitting your TFN application through the ATO website, most people receive their Tax File Number within 28 days. In practice, many applicants receive it sooner, sometimes within two weeks, though this depends on the ATO's current processing times and how busy they are at any given point.
How your TFN is delivered
Your TFN is sent to you by post as a letter to the Australian address you provided in your application. The letter contains your TFN and some basic information about how to use it. It does not arrive by email or SMS. This is why it is important to provide an address where you are confident you will still be staying when the letter arrives.
If you are moving around a lot or staying in different hostels, try to use the address of somewhere you will be for at least a month. If you miss the letter, it can be difficult to retrieve, though the ATO does have a process to help you find your TFN if you lose it.
What to do while you are waiting
You do not need to wait for your TFN before starting work. You can begin working immediately and inform your employer that your application is in progress. Keep the confirmation email the ATO sent you as evidence. Some employers will accept this and proceed with a lower withholding rate, while others will apply the maximum rate until your TFN is on file. Either way, any excess tax withheld can be recovered through your tax return at the end of the financial year.
While waiting, it is also worth setting up a myGov account online. You will eventually link it to the ATO to access your income statements and lodge your tax return, so getting that set up early saves time later.
What if 28 days pass and nothing arrives
If more than 28 days have passed since you submitted your application and you have not received a letter, the first step is to check that the address you provided was correct. If the address was correct, you can contact the ATO directly by phone to follow up on your application. Have your reference number from the confirmation email ready.
In most cases, delays are caused by incorrect address details or a letter that was lost in the post. The ATO can confirm whether your TFN has been issued and, if necessary, arrange for it to be sent again.
After your TFN arrives
Once you have your TFN, provide it to your employer immediately along with a completed Tax File Number Declaration form. This is what ensures the correct 15% tax rate is applied to your wages going forward. Your TFN is also required for lodging your tax return and accessing your superannuation.
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