Which option?

Question

Which option?

 · Accepted Answer

BlakeATO · Answer

When you start employment, you have 28 days to get a TFN where your employer will withhold normal rates before applying the no-TFN withholding rate. This is to give you time to apply for a tax file number (or locate it if you already have one). In your instance, your TFN will still exist, it will just be locked to prevent fraudulent activity. To unlock it, we recommend contacting us and passing identity checks. That's going to be hard if you can't remember details from the time it was last active - especially if your name has changed since then. In that case, you're going to have to reapply for your TFN. This updates everything on your old record to be your new details. How you apply depends on where you are when you apply. If you're overseas, you'll need to use the TFN application for applicants living outside of Australia. You'll need to include certified copies of identity documents, including the one that shows where your name changed. Once we receive your application, it can take up to 28 calendar (not working) days for us to process the application. That means you need to account for postage time - but you can list your postal address as your Australian one if you expect to have moved in that time. You don't need to show us your marriage certificate in person anywhere - if you have to show us, a certified copy sent in is sufficient. If you're in Australia, you'll apply online using your passport details. We compare these details with information from Home Affairs to confirm your name change - no marriage certificate required. This also can take up to 28 calendar (not working) days. This all boils down to: you have time. You have 28 days from the time you start with an Australian employer to find and provide your tax file number. Even if it takes a little longer to find your TFN, they'll just withhold more from your salary or wages. It will all come out in the wash when you lodge your tax return at the end of the financial year and you'll get any excess back as a credit. You can find how to apply for a TFN on our website.

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