The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has introduced Client-to-Agent linking as a measure to enhance the security of their online services.
For enhanced security, starting from 13 November 2023, all entities with an Australian Business Number (ABN), must nominate their agent before the agent can add them to their client list. This change is being implemented to ensure that all parties involved, including the ATO, the agent, and the client, can have confidence that the client has authorised the agent to access their information and act on their behalf. Please note that this process does not currently apply to sole traders.
What is the Client-to-Agent linking process?
The client-to-agent linking process enhances security to protect BAS agents and clients from identity-related fraud or theft. Clients will need to nominate their BAS agent before the agent can add them to their client list. Existing clients may already have been linked. However, occasionally these links can become broken, requiring the need to reestablish the linking process.
Find out how you can access online services for your business
Prior to initiating the Client Agent Linking procedure, it is important to ensure that you have the necessary access to Online Services for Business.
Do you have access to Online services for business?
Yes? You can start at step 3.
No? You will need to start at step 1.
To complete the Client-to-Agent linking process, business owners will need to have an ATO online services for business account.
It is necessary for business owners to complete the agent nomination in their ATO account. To complete steps 1 and 2, you will need to be the main authority. If you’re not sure about your role, click here to find out how to get started.
Step-by-Step Guide for Client-to-Agent Linking
Set up your Digital ID (myGovID)
- Download the myGovID app from the App Store or Google and follow the instructions to set up your myGovID.
- You can choose between a Strong myGovID or a Standard myGovID, depending on the verification documents you have.
- Remember your myGovID is unique to you and should not be shared with anyone else.
Link your myGovID to your ABN
- To link your myGovID to your Australian Business Number (ABN), you can use the Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM).
- If you have a Strong myGovID, simply log in to RAM and follow the prompts.
- If you have a standard myGovID, you will need to reach out to the Australian Taxation Office to complete this step.
Log in to Online Services for Business
Use your myGovID to log in to ATO Online Services for business.
Nominate Your Authorised Agent
To nominate your agent in Online Services for Business:
- From the Online Services for Business home page, select “Profile”.
- Then, click on “Agent Details”.
- In the Agent Nominations feature, select “Add”.
- On the Nominate Agent screen, go to “Search for Agent”.
Now you can find your agent’s details under Agent Nominations.
Inform Your Agent of the Nomination
Please note you must inform your BAS agent directly, as they are not automatically notified by the ATO.
References
For more information, visit the following websites:
Australian Tax Office (ATO)
Client-Agent Linking – Agent Nomination Process
Client-to-agent linking in online services
Online services for business – Client-agent linking steps (PDF)
Set up your access to Online services for business
myGovID
myGovID – Using myGovID with myGov
Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM)
Relationship Authorisation Manager – Set up authorisations
We have created a Client-to- Agent Linking Information Pack for our clients. This pack is designed to assist in simplifying the process for businesses. If you would like a copy or you have questions regarding this new process, please reach out to our team, we’re here to help.
Please note that we can assist you but cannot complete the process for you.
