How to Nominate Your Registered Tax Agent in Australia
As a business owner, having a registered accountant or tax agent is key to managing your tax obligations with confidence. Whether you’re new to Online Services for Business or already set up, here’s a clear step-by-step guide to nominating your agent and getting it right the first time.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Nominating Your Agent
Step 1: Set Up Your Digital ID
To begin the process, you’ll need a Digital ID to verify your identity. The Australian Government uses myID as their Digital ID provider.
What to Do:
- Download the myID app from the Apple App Store or Google Play
- Follow the in-app instructions to create your myID
Choose Your Identity Strength:
- Strong Identity Strength: Requires your Australian passport and either a driver’s licence, Medicare card, or citizenship certificate
- Standard Identity Strength: Requires 2 Australian identity documents (you’ll need to contact the ATO to continue if using this option)
Tip: Your Digital ID is personal and cannot be shared with others.
Step 2: Link Your Digital ID to Your ABN
Now, connect your personal myID to your business using Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM).
What to Do:
- Go to the RAM website
- Log in using your myID
- Select “Link your business” and follow the prompts
If you’re using a Standard myID or are a primary person (e.g. listed as a contact for a government entity), you’ll need to contact the ATO to complete this step.
You should only need to link your Digital ID and ABN once.
Step 3: Log in to Online Services for Business
Once your ABN is linked, you’re ready to log in to the ATO’s Online Services for Business.
- Go to the ATO’s Online Services for Business login page
- Use your myID to log in
Step 4: Nominate Your Accountant or Registered Agent
You’ll need your accountant’s Registered Agent Number to proceed.
What to Do:
- From the home page, go to Profile > Agent details
- Select Add in the Agent nominations section
- On the Nominate Agent screen, choose Search for Agent
- Enter the agent’s Registered Agent Number and select Search
- Select your agent and confirm their details
- Complete the Declaration and click Submit
Your agent will now be listed under Agent Nominations.
Step 5: Notify Your Agent
Your accountant or agent won’t be notified automatically, so it’s important to let them know once you’ve submitted the nomination.
They have 28 days to accept the nomination and add you as a client. If they don’t, the nomination will expire.
Extending a Nomination
If your agent needs more time, you can extend the nomination for another 28 days.
What to Do:
- Go to Agent Nominations in Online Services for Business
- Select Extend next to your agent’s name
- Confirm the details, complete the Declaration, and hit Submit
- Notify your agent of the extension
If the nomination has already expired, you’ll need to start the nomination process again.
Why This Matters for Small Business Owners
Having your business accountant or tax agent properly nominated ensures they can manage your obligations, access your records, and represent you to the ATO. This setup is essential for lodging BAS, income tax returns, and receiving timely tax planning advice.
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