Loading
MoneyUnicorn(Initiate)Initiate
24 Nov 2022

Hi,


Recently I started my first work and need to get used to using ATO for taxation purposes. I want to connect ATO service to my myGov account, yet they require me to provide two secrets before connecting.


I applied for my TFN long time ago, so I cannot remember what bank account I provided to ATO 5-6 years ago. I also don't have any other secrets I can provide as I am only starting my first work and I am an international student. (Superannuation account, Centrelink payment summary, Dividends statement, Notice of assessment, PAYG payment summary)


I tried to call ATO for 5 times in a row every morning but I just never get to talk to a real person as it is always "peak" time with all the service support person.


What can I do now?


Thanks.

14,934 views
6 replies
14,934 views
6 replies

Most helpful response

Most helpful reply

EthanATO(Community Support)Community Support
25 Nov 2022

Hi @MoneyUnicorn,


Sorry to hear you're having trouble linking and getting through over the phone. If you've never lodged before, we generally won't have much up to date information to verify the link online. Unfortunately, this does then mean that you may not be able to use the online linking method. To get around this you can use a linking code instead. Our myGov linking page has a section on obtaining a linking code that should help out.


In the meantime, was there anything specific you needed your account linked for? We may be able to provide an alternative solution if you're unable to get through just yet.

All replies

Most helpful reply

EthanATO(Community Support)Community Support
25 Nov 2022

Hi @MoneyUnicorn,


Sorry to hear you're having trouble linking and getting through over the phone. If you've never lodged before, we generally won't have much up to date information to verify the link online. Unfortunately, this does then mean that you may not be able to use the online linking method. To get around this you can use a linking code instead. Our myGov linking page has a section on obtaining a linking code that should help out.


In the meantime, was there anything specific you needed your account linked for? We may be able to provide an alternative solution if you're unable to get through just yet.

ground_group0b(I'm new)I'm new
13 Oct 2023

I am in the same situation as MoneyUnicorn was. I reached an ATO rep on the call after a 45 minute wait but she couldn't give me a linking code either. She was asking for my previous tax lodgement information which I do not have as I am starting my first work.


She said then I would not be able to use ATO online service but having to rely on either paying for a tax agent, which I don't want to; or file by physical paper going forward.


This surely can't be right?


Appreciate your help so I can manage my tax online.

lkw0113(Master)Master
17 July 2025

Hi,

First, I can't link MyGov with ATO because this is my first time filing taxes in Australia and I don't have two secrets to share with you as they don't exist yet. Second, I can't get a linking code because the hotline keeps saying it's busy. So I would like to do paper return. But how can I see my PAYG statement given that I don't have online access? Thanks!

Featured articles

How to access myGov and ATO online services while overseas

24 Aug 2025 · 2 min read time

Can’t sign in to myGov to access ATO online services?

2 Dec 2025 · 3 min read time

Linking your myGov account to the ATO

24 Aug 2025 · 3 min read time

Top liked users

  1. BroncosvRabbits

    (Devotee)

    61 likes

  2. mi_guv_eye_d

    (Master)

    36 likes

  3. PayrollDeanne

    (Taxicorn)

    32 likes

  4. YellowPotato

    (Taxicorn)

    28 likes

  5. taxfriend

    (Superuser)

    27 likes

Top contributors

  1. BroncosvRabbits

    (Devotee)

    303contributions

  2. mi_guv_eye_d

    (Master)

    285contributions

  3. YellowPotato

    (Taxicorn)

    215contributions

  4. YEP

    (Devotee)

    129contributions

  5. taxfriend

    (Superuser)

    129contributions

Loading
How to connect ATO to myGov account WITHOUT the required two secrets? | ATO Community