How to Get a Tax File Number (TFN) as a Teenager

Why You Need a TFN Before Starting Work

When you start a job, your employer needs your TFN to calculate how much tax to take from your pay. If you don't provide one within 28 days of starting, they're legally required to withhold tax at the top marginal rate: 47 cents from every dollar you earn.

For most teenagers earning under the tax-free threshold of $18,200 per year, you shouldn't pay any tax at all. But without a TFN, you'll lose nearly half your pay and have to wait until tax time to claim it back. That could mean waiting 6-12 months to get your money back.

Here's what it looks like in practice:

The difference is significant. Apply for your TFN as soon as you start thinking about getting a job, not when you already have one.

How to Apply If You're 15 or Older

If you're 15 or over, you can apply online through the ATO website. You'll need a myGov account linked to the ATO, which requires you to verify your identity using myID (the government's identity app).

Step 1: Set Up myGov and myID

If you don't already have a myGov account, you'll need to create one. Go to my.gov.au and click "Create account". You'll need an email address and to set up a password.

Next, download the myID app on your phone and follow the steps to verify your identity. You'll need to take a photo of your ID documents and a selfie. This usually takes 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Link the ATO to Your myGov Account

Once you have myGov and myID set up, log in to myGov and click "Link a service". Select "Australian Taxation Office" from the list. You'll need to verify your identity again using myID.

Step 3: Apply for Your TFN

Once the ATO is linked to your myGov account, go to the ATO section and look for "Apply for a TFN" or navigate through the menu. The application asks for basic personal details like your name, date of birth, and address.

Alternatively, you can apply directly through the ATO website at ato.gov.au if you have the required identity documents.

Step 4: Wait for Your TFN to Arrive

After submitting your application, your TFN will be sent to you by post. This typically takes 10-28 days. Keep an eye on your mail and store your TFN letter somewhere safe once it arrives.

How to Apply If You're Under 15

If you're under 15, you can't apply online. You'll need to apply in person at a participating Australia Post outlet with a parent or guardian. Don't worry, it's a straightforward process.

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

You'll need to bring proof of identity documents. See the "Documents You'll Need" section below for the full list. Your parent or guardian will also need to bring their ID.

Step 2: Find a Participating Australia Post

Not all Australia Post outlets offer this service. Use the Australia Post store locator to find one near you that offers identity verification services. It's worth calling ahead to confirm they can process TFN applications.

Step 3: Visit Australia Post with Your Parent

Bring all your documents and your parent or guardian to the Australia Post outlet. The staff will help you complete the application form (form NAT 1432). They'll verify your identity and submit the application on your behalf.

Step 4: Wait for Your TFN

Your TFN will be posted to you within 28 days. It will arrive in an official ATO letter. Keep this letter safe as you'll need to provide your TFN to your employer.

Documents You'll Need

Whether applying online or at Australia Post, you'll need to prove your identity. The ATO uses a points system where different documents are worth different points, and you need to reach a certain threshold.

Primary Documents (One Required)

• Australian birth certificate
• Australian passport (current or expired within last 2 years)
• Australian citizenship certificate

Secondary Documents (May Need One or More)

• Medicare card
• Bank statement or account details
• School ID or school report
• Student concession card
• Proof of enrolment at an educational institution

Most teenagers will use their birth certificate (or passport if they have one) plus a Medicare card. If you don't have a Medicare card, a school ID or recent bank statement will work.

How Long Does It Take?

The actual application takes about 10-15 minutes. However, your TFN won't arrive instantly.

This is why you should apply before you get a job, not after. If you wait until you have a job offer, you might start work before your TFN arrives and lose money to higher tax withholding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Getting your TFN is straightforward, but here are some things to watch out for:

Waiting Too Long to Apply

The biggest mistake is waiting until you've already got a job. With processing times of up to 28 days, you could start work without your TFN and lose money to tax. Apply as soon as you start thinking about getting a job.

Sharing Your TFN Unnecessarily

Your TFN is sensitive personal information. Only give it to your employer (for employment purposes), the ATO, and your bank or super fund. Never share it on social media, with friends, or on websites unless it's an official government or financial service.

Losing Your TFN Letter

When your TFN arrives, store the letter somewhere safe. Write down your TFN and keep it in a secure place. You'll use this number throughout your working life, so don't lose it. If you do, you can recover it through myGov or by calling the ATO.

Paying for a TFN

Some websites charge money to apply for a TFN on your behalf. This is unnecessary and potentially a scam. A TFN is always free to apply for. Only use the official ATO website or Australia Post for your application.

Getting Started Checklist

Ready to apply for your TFN? Here's what to do:

• 1.Check your age - If you're 15+, you can apply online. Under 15, you'll need to go to Australia Post with a parent.
• 2.Gather your documents - Find your birth certificate or passport, plus a secondary document like your Medicare card or school ID.
• 3.Set up myGov and myID (if 15+) - Download the myID app and create your myGov account before starting the TFN application.
• 4.Submit your application - Apply online through myGov or in person at Australia Post if you're under 15.
• 5.Wait for the post - Your TFN will arrive by mail within 10-28 days. Keep an eye on the letterbox.
• 6.Store it safely - Once your TFN arrives, keep the letter safe and write down your TFN somewhere secure.