Losing your Tax File Number (TFN) can be stressful, but the good news is that your TFN is a permanent, lifelong identifier that never changes. You do not need to apply for a new one; you simply need to retrieve your existing one.

The fastest and most efficient way to recover your TFN is through your myGov account.

Step-by-Step: Retrieving Your TFN via myGov

If you already have a myGov account linked to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), you can find your TFN in just a few clicks:

1. Log in to myGov: Go to my.gov.au and sign in using your credentials.
2. Select the ATO: From your list of linked services, click on Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
3. Find Your TFN: Look for the “Find my TFN” button or navigate to the “My Profile” > “Personal Details” menu. Your TFN will be displayed on the screen.

Note: If your myGov account is not yet linked to the ATO, you can do so by selecting “Link your first service” and verifying your identity using details from a previous tax return or an ATO Notice of Assessment.

Other Places to Look for Your TFN

If you are unable to access your myGov account, your TFN is likely printed on several official documents you may already have in your possession:

• Notice of Assessment: This is the most common place to find your TFN. It is the document issued by the ATO after you lodge your annual tax return.
• Payment Summaries/Income Statements: Any documents from past employers detailing your income will typically include your TFN.
• Superannuation Statements: Correspondence from your super fund usually lists your TFN on file.
• Previous Tax Returns: If you have kept digital or paper copies of your past tax returns, your TFN will be at the very top of these documents.
• Contact Your Tax Agent: If you use a registered accountant or tax agent, they are required to keep copies of your returns and can provide your TFN to you upon request.

Still Can’t Find It? Contact the ATO

If you have checked your personal records and cannot access your myGov account, you should contact the Australian Taxation Office directly:

• Phone: Call the ATO on 13 28 61 (available Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm AEST).
• Identity Check: Be prepared to answer security questions to verify your identity. This is a standard procedure to protect your tax information from identity theft.
• What to Have Ready: Keep your personal details (full name, date of birth, and previous addresses) and any relevant financial details handy to help the ATO verify your identity.

Important Warning: Never apply for a “new” TFN if you have simply misplaced your current one. Having multiple TFNs can complicate your tax affairs and lead to delays in processing. If you believe your TFN has been stolen or accessed by an unauthorized third party, call the ATO’s Client Identity Support Centre immediately at 1800 467 033.

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Processing times and contact numbers may vary; always check the official ATO website for the latest updates.