Australian citizens can get a Tax File Number (TFN) at any age – even babies! It’s free to get one from the ATO.
If your child is under 15:
You can complete the application on their behalf.
If they are 13-15 years old, they can sign the application themselves or you can sign on their behalf. For 12 years old or under, parent/guardians must sign the application.
- Complete the online application form on the ATO website.
- Print the application form.
- Book an interview with a participating Australia Post office within 28 days. Bring the printed application form and supporting documents.
If your child is over 15:
They must complete and sign their own TFN application. You can help by guiding them through the process.
- Complete the online application form on the ATO website.
- Print the application form.
- Book an interview with a participating Australia Post office within 28 days. Bring the printed application form and supporting documents.
If your child is over 15 and has an Australian passport and a myGovID – they can apply online. This means they’ll get their TFN straight away.
Why is it important to have a TFN added to your child’s super account?
- Save on tax - otherwise the ATO taxes super at a higher rate of 47%
- Receive and make personal contributions
- Consolidate old and lost super accounts
How do you add a TFN to a Student Super account?
If your child already has a Student Super account, they can login here. There will be a tile on their dashboard and they will be able to add it from there.
If your child does not have a Student Super account, it will ask for the TFN during the join process.
I’ve misplaced my child’s TFN...
There are a few places you can check when searching for the TFN;
- Call the ATO – they will be able to help
- Ask your child to log into their myGov account
- Check previously lodged income tax returns
