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swiftwhale(Newbie)Newbie
6 Aug 2024

Hi,


I've recently started doing some consulting on the side and have engaged an overseas business as a subcontractor. They've asked me for business details prior to the first payment (me to them) and as part of this they've asked for my "individual tax number" (TFN) rather than my ABN. This seems strange. I don't think I'm being scammed, I've been working with them for a while now and they're quite trustworthy, but I don't understand why they're asking for my TFN. Is there any danger in providing it?


Maybe it's some kind of translation error, as English is not the official language of this country. Should I provide my ABN instead?

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Most helpful reply

Matt_ATO(Community Support)Community Support
9 Aug 2024

Howdy @swiftwhale,


It’s possible that the request for your TFN is a translation error or misunderstanding. In many countries, the equivalent of a TFN is used for business identification. They might actually be asking for your Australian Business Number (ABN) instead.


Your TFN is a sensitive piece of information used for personal tax purposes. Sharing it can expose you to risks such as identity theft or fraud.


A TFN should only be provided to specific entities, such as your employer, bank, or us. And then this will be for legitimate tax-related purposes.


Contact the overseas business and clarify whether they need your ABN instead of your TFN. Explain that the ABN is the appropriate identifier for business transactions.

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Most helpful reply

Matt_ATO(Community Support)Community Support
9 Aug 2024

Howdy @swiftwhale,


It’s possible that the request for your TFN is a translation error or misunderstanding. In many countries, the equivalent of a TFN is used for business identification. They might actually be asking for your Australian Business Number (ABN) instead.


Your TFN is a sensitive piece of information used for personal tax purposes. Sharing it can expose you to risks such as identity theft or fraud.


A TFN should only be provided to specific entities, such as your employer, bank, or us. And then this will be for legitimate tax-related purposes.


Contact the overseas business and clarify whether they need your ABN instead of your TFN. Explain that the ABN is the appropriate identifier for business transactions.

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Overseas subcontractor asking for tax file number? | ATO Community