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Last updated 24 Aug 2025 · 522,730 views
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Check your myGov sign in options

Before you can link your myGov account to the ATO, you’ll need to make sure you’re using one of the supported sign in options. To help keep your ATO online account secure, when signing in to myGov, you must be using either:

Using myID to access your myGov account

When accessing ATO online services through myGov, the strongest sign in method you use becomes your online access strength.

myID is the Australian Government’s Digital ID app. It’s one of the sign in options you can use to prove who you are when signing into myGov.

Check out more info on Using myID with myGov

Linking your myGov to the ATO

To link your myGov account to the ATO you’ll need to answer 2 questions about your tax record.

When you sign into your myGov account, select View and link services and select Link next to Australian Taxation Office.

Once you agree to the terms and conditions of use, enter or confirm your personal details – name, date of birth, address, and tax file number (TFN). If your details have changed, you’ll need to update them with us before you can link.

You’ll then be asked to provide details from 2 of the following:

  • A bank account that you’ve had your tax refund paid to or that has earned interest over the last 2 years – you’ll need your BSB and account number.

  • Super account statement from the last 5 years — you’ll need your member number and super fund’s ABN. These usually arrive by mail, email or through your super fund’s member portal.

  • Notice of assessment from the last 5 years — you’ll need the date of issue and our reference number. If you’ve used a tax agent, they may have a copy.

  • Centrelink payment summary from the last 2 years — you’ll need your taxable income. If your myGov account is linked to Centrelink, you can get these details online.

  • Dividend statement from the last 2 years — you’ll need your investment reference number. These come from the company that you received the dividend from.

  • PAYG payment summary from the last 2 years — you’ll need your gross income. This comes from your employer.

If you’re unable to link myGov to the ATO

If you haven’t lodged a tax return before you won’t be able to link by answering the questions. This is because we simply don’t know enough about you yet to create the questions.

So, if you can’t link by answering the questions, you’ll need to contact us for unique linking code. You also have the option to lodge your tax return another way. Once your return has processed, you’ll have an easier time linking.

If you're overseas, check out our info on How to access myGov and ATO Online from overseas.

Find out more at Create a myGov account and link it to the ATO.

If you get an error message or have trouble entering the above information, check our troubleshooting information.

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Liked by farahwilliam45, Tillay and 10 others
SusyQ(Newbie)Newbie
17 Oct 2025

Hi I have being trying to link my mygov account to ato. Every time I try using PORO to enter my info it locks me out. I use the bank account number and super number I have always used but it will not accept it. Can I do this another way as I wish to lodge return online. I never had any trouble last year but I have being trying this for the last two weeks. Help!

Liked by farahwilliam45
RachelATO(Community Moderator)Community Moderator
20 Oct 2025

Hi @SusyQ,


First, make sure the details you're entering match exactly what we have on file. For example, the bank account number must be the one your refund was paid into or that you used to pay a tax debt. Your super account number must be from a fund that reported to us in the last financial year.


If you’ve changed banks or super funds recently, or if your fund hasn’t reported yet, that could cause the mismatch.


If PORO keeps failing, you can try linking using your notice of assessment details instead. You’ll need your full name, date of birth and TFN and the reference number from a recent notice of assessment (from within the last five years).


If that still doesn’t work, you might need to call us to verify your identity and get help linking your account.

Liked by farahwilliam45
Danmc(Newbie)Newbie
12 Sept 2025

I'm at my wit's end trying to link to mygov.


I really wish there had been a warning saying 'using myID offers no advantage but endless headaches'.


I'm trying to re-link my ATO with myGov after hours of trying to figure out what was wrong with myID as all I got was it's not strong enough even though I had used it to login to submit my taxes.


I keep getting told my superfund details are wrong, I have no centerlink account, I don't have a chess account for dividends, I don't know how to see my notice of assessment without logging in, and my employer hasn't provided a payg summary in 6 years.

On-top of that every time I've tried to call to get a linking code so I stopped getting blocked for 3 wrong attempts. I get a message that too many people calling, no call back option not even a hold option just 'bye'.



Liked by megscarr and farahwilliam45
RachelATO(Community Moderator)Community Moderator
17 Sept 2025

Hi @Danmc,


You'd only require a strong myID to link to the ATO, if you've previously set a Strong Online Access Service. If this is the case, and you're now unable to achieve a strong myID, you'll need to contact support to change this.


Otherwise, you can access our online services with a standard identity strength. You have two main options. You can relink using a linking code (we can issue one to you) or by answering questions about your tax record.


If you want to try and link yourself, you’ll need to answer 2 questions from your tax record. The information needs to match what we have in our systems. If any of these are incorrect or unavailable, you’ll get blocked after 3 attempts. If you're blocked or can't answer the questions, you’ll need to call our individual enquiries line to get a linking code.


The phone lines are busy; you could try calling later in the week and closer to the start and end times for the day. We’re taking calls from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

Liked by farahwilliam45
Aquan(Newbie)Newbie
1 Aug 2025

Hi ATO, I logged into mygov and tried to link ATO service. When I filled the TFN and personal details then submitted , the system page showed " Call 132861 for assistance. Error code: PAB.DE.0009".

I called and waited more than 45 minutes, but nobody answered it and automatic disconnection.

Please help urgently, I need to settle TAX RETURN 2024-2025.


thanks,

Aquan

Aug 1,2025

Liked by farahwilliam45
Anneke(I'm new)I'm new
28 July 2025

Hi ATO, I have logged into mygov and tried linking my ATO account. I keep getting the error that the bank details I filled in are not corresponding to those on file. In order to check which bank details ATO has on file and possibly correct them, one needs to have their MyGov account linked to ATO...so it's a catch 22.


When then calling the ATO for a linking code, I keep getting hung up on as they do not have anyone to answer the phone. Can you let me know how else I could get the linking code?

BrookeATO(Community Support)Community Support
28 July 2025

Hi @Anneke


If a linking code is the only option for you to link your myGov with the ATO, the only way to get one is to call us.


We know it's busy in the contact centre this time of year and sometimes it's tricky to get through. But, if you try calling our individuals line as close to open and close time as possible, it may reduce holding times. Our contact centre is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.

AWAW(I'm new)I'm new
24 July 2025

Hi ATO team,


Im trying to link myGov to ATO, in the question about Dividend statement, may i know what "investment reference number" is exactly referring to? Is that the Holder identification Number or something else?


Thanks.

BrookeATO(Community Support)Community Support
28 July 2025

Hi @AWAW


Your investment reference number should be listed on your dividend statement (from the last 2 years) or on an email or letter from your investment body. If you're unable to locate your investment reference number, you should select a different question to link with.

RushA(Initiate)Registered Tax Professional
9 Nov 2024

The linking process is open to fraud as the process does not confirm the ID of the MyGov creator. If someone's email has been hacked they may obtain the necessary information to fraudulently ATO link. To obtain a MyGov account, the process should require 100 points of Identification. I have two clients (so far) impacted by this serious system fail. One had taxation returns (falsely) amended and the other had Centrelink pension payments diverted to a thieves bank account.


There have been two weak link that facilated these frauds

1) MyGov accounts not requiring 100 points of ID to be created, and

2) Email accounts without 2FA (and, therefore being easy to hack)


In both cases, Australian Government money was stolen and notwithstanding this the clients were asked to report the crime to Police. In fact, the Government was the victim.

FFouedjio(Newbie)Newbie
29 Oct 2024

Dear ATO,


I used ATO online services without issue until one week ago. I am currently unable to link myGov to the ATO. When I tried to link myGov to the ATO, this error message appeared:" Identity strength too weak to link to the ATO. Error codes: PAB.DE.0006, PAB.DE.0007." I can not have a strong myGovID Digital Identity because I am not an Australian Citizen (only PR). I disconnected the option 'Connect your Digital ID" in my MyGov profile to see If I could link using a linking code. Unfortunately, I can not enter the unique linking code as there is no option there for me. I called customer service representatives many times, but none found a solution to this issue. Every time I try to link ATO I receive the same error message. Any help would be appreciated.


Thank you in advance.

Liked by megscarr and thetruck
Needhelp1(I'm new)I'm new
4 Sept 2024

Dear ATO,

I have just been advised that you have found my super (another story), problem now is that I am unable to link mygov with ATO. I am a Kiwi and have not worked in Australia for over 25 years,, to link I need to answer 2 of the 6 questions, I can not answer any of the 6 questions as I have been away to long. How to I transfer my super out from the ATO (superannuation holding account (SHA) to another fund or even better to my Australian bank account. I am 56 years old, I do not have KiwiSaver as I do not live in New Zealand either.... Please can you help.


Thank you in advance

AnitaATO(Community Support)Community Support
4 Sept 2024

Hi @Needhelpato,


We sure can help 😊


Yes, it gets tricky trying to link to us when you've been away for so long. If you have no way of accessing online services, then you'll need to speak with our super area. They'll be able to tell you what options you have and help you with the transfer.



simonebosa(Newbie)Newbie
28 July 2024

Hi,

When I provide bank informations and super annuation info, it gives me an error like "This does not match what is held in ATO records" I never changed anything! Which info do you have it? I am stuck please could you help me?

Thanks


Simone

Liked by Heralds6060
AnitaATO(Community Support)Community Support
29 July 2024

Hi @simonebosa,


This can happen often especially with bank details. If you use a tax agent to lodge your tax returns, they'll often list their bank details on your account.


We can't tell you here on our forum what details we have for you, but you can speak with our individual's team. They'll be able to confirm your details with you.

sy.dophu(Newbie)Newbie
5 July 2024

When providing Super and bank Account, I got the error that" This does not match what is held in ATO records"


Note: those information are not changed because I still get wages and super weekly based on them.


What should I do know? I tried to called to ATO but higher demand, so no one supports me


Thanks a bunch!

Liked by simonebosa, paulina9949 and 1 other
cityeast(Initiate)Initiate
2 July 2024

I am an Australian-born expat living in Europe for 20 years, but now have a need to link mygov to the ATO (pending inheritance). I had mygovID strong, but when I recreated my account due to a forgotten password, I could only get standard level.

I have no Australian DL or Medicare card (now needed for mygovID strong) nor do I have any financial activity required to answer the secret questions. How do I proceed? Being an expat Australian, does that mean I am no longer trusted? Situated 8 hours behind Eastern Standard Time, It is difficult to call the helpline during my night hours.

JesterMendoza(I'm new)I'm new
27 June 2024

Hi everyone, i cant link my mygov acvount to ATO, i tried to call many times but theres a problem on the line. I also tried many times to input all the details that they need but it always says that it does not match. I think i need a linking code but icant talk to any representative on the phone. Please help me. Thanks and godbless everyone have a g'day😊

AnitaATO(Community Support)Community Support
1 July 2024

Hi @JesterMendoza,


If you're needing a linking code, then you'll need to speak with us.


We are experiencing high call volumes at the moment and ask that you continue to try. We'll be able to help you and get you all linked up.

Carmenkan(I'm new)I'm new
12 June 2024

Hi team, I was trying to get the Linking code by calling [removed by moderator], but I can't get through to speak with anyone.


I was calling from overseas so tried another way to call the overseas enquires +61 [removed by moderator], same case happened and when I tried to leave a my phone number for the call back, it said 'my phone number is not valid, please try again' .


I am sure I was entering the correct area code followed by the mobile number. What shall I do in this case for getting the linked code, or get a call back for customer support, just for linked myGOV with ATO?


Thank you!

pearlwri808(I'm new)I'm new
12 Mar 2024

i need to link mygov to ato so i can change information on my tfn application as it is incorrect (it has been processed) however linking mygov to ato requires a tfn and i am unable to put anything so i don't know what to do

Kwv(Initiate)Initiate
17 Jan 2024

When I wanted to get my tax file number, I had the same issue where it couldn't link ATO to My Gov and when I rang the 13 to get assistance I basically received no assistance, as even those I gave the correct Health Insurance details they claimed it was incorrect and they didn't want other ID like Qld Government Adult Photo ID card, Medicare card etc etc etc and then they suggested I should get a new tax file number because they didn't want to assist me 🤔🤔🤔?


Also it before it came up with the server error last night, I tried to get a my tax file number it asked for my name, address and tax file number 🤔🤔🤔?

Liked by Pledge24Elliott
jamesoldland(Newbie)Newbie
30 Nov 2023

Obtaining an ATO Linking Code without AUS ID


Hi


I lived in Australia for a number of years whilst I was working there.

I left Australia more than 8 years ago and now live permanently back in the UK.


Until a few days ago I had access to the ATO linked through MyGov using the “Code Generator” App for security and have been filling out the tax return and paying any tax due using ATO MyTax. 


I followed the instructions here to move the Code Generator App to a new phone and in doing so it FORCED me to unlink the ATO from my MyGov account.


https://my.gov.au/en/about/help/mygov-website/sign-in-to-mygov/use-the-mygov-code-generator-app/detailed-steps-on-how-to-set-up-the-mygov-code-generator-app


I then followed the instructions here to try and relink the ATO to MyGov.


https://tv.ato.gov.au/ato-tv/media?v=bd1bdiubfo8e4m


On entering the correct address held by the ATO and TFN for my personal details I get the error code PAB.BR.0005 which led me to call and ask for a linking code from the help desk.


On calling the help desk I gave them my name, dob, TFN, the UK address that the ATO holds on record for me, a recent notice of assessment reference and details of my interest bearing accounts. These were all accepted by the help desk to identify my records. 


In addition for my own account security I was told that to get a linking code my identity needs to be verified. 

To do this the help desk asked me for a document issued in Australia. 


I do not hold an Australian Passport and any valid Australian ID which I did have when I lived in Australia such as Medicare, driving licence, Visa have all expired long ago. I do have a valid UK passport and the details of the passport that I had when I was living in the Australia. 


I now have access to MyGov using the code generator on my new phone but still need to link the ATO which requires a Linking code.

I have UK ID which are accepted around the world.

I have an ATO account which I have been using for years with all the correct details on ( and had access to days ago )

I have my TFN, notice of assessment references and interest bearing bank account details.


It would be much appreciated if someone could please advise how I obtain a linking code without verifying my identity with an Australian issued ID.


Sorry for the long message but I wanted to explain the steps I had taken to get where I am because it might help someone else.


Thank you.

Liked by Kelly19877 and Liang
JoESP(Newbie)Newbie
1 Nov 2023

Hi, my son is 16yo and is trying to link ATO services to his MyGov, but as he does not have enough details, he called ATO to arrange a linking code. Still, the person asked for him to provide the reference number on 2 letters he received from ATO within the last 5 years, but he did not receive any letter with a reference number within 5 years, so we could not get the code. What to do? He has a TFN letter with a reference number, but it is older than 5 years, and he also has an ABN confirmation letter, but it was received via email and has no reference letter. Thanks

Teresa_Blazevic(Newbie)Newbie
31 Oct 2023

Dear to whom this may concern,

Upon trying to do my tax return multiple times this past few weeks, every time I try to log in to the ATO app or website (issue happens on both) via MyGov or otherwise, I'm consistently met with an error that falsely states:


Your digital identity doesn't meet the required credential strength

We have cancelled your login as your digital identity doesn't meet the required credential strength.

To meet the required credential strength, follow the instructions of your identity provider, for example myGovID.

If the problem continues, contact usLink opens in new window.

Error code: access_denied_insufficient_credential_strength


When logging into the myGovID app, it shows that my identity strength is already set to "strong", the highest it can possibly be. All other apps and websites linked to MyGov are working fine. There seems to be a specific issue with the ATO.


Can you please assist me with solutions for this problem? I don't particularly have time at the moment to sit on the phone waiting for it to be answered, especially with the wait times.

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Liked by Kwv and Ngp
Tayla.Jack(I'm new)I'm new
30 Oct 2023

hi


I have been trying to lodge my first tax return but I am having problem as the ATO is unable to match my identity and I need a unique linking code. 


I have been trying to call now for two days and keep getting a message that the call centre is busy and to call back then it hangs up. 


I can’t get through and I have no way to lodge my return. Can you please help. 


HannahZaidi(Newbie)Newbie
26 Oct 2023

I have been trying to lodge my tax return but I am having problem as the ATO is unable to match my identity. I have been calling so many times but everytime i ring the number, they just hung up saying that they are too busy. So how am

echi3386(Newbie)Newbie
13 Oct 2023

Hi, i'm really struggling to link my ATO with mygov as i only have my TFN and a bank account. What is PAYG summary? Where can i find that on my payslip please as the other options do not apply to me and i keep getting locked out as i'm unsure which number to put in that is correct.

I've just moved back from the UK and have worked for a little less than 9 months and do not understand why it's so hard to lodge a tax. We didn;t even need to do this in UK as everything is linked via employers. Please help.

I've tried calling to get code but impossible to get through and as i work most of the opening hours, there is no other means to lodge this form online.

Liked by landvilaro

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Linking your myGov account to the ATO | ATO Community