How to Get an ATO Linking Code in Australia
Many Australian business owners face a common challenge when setting up digital access with the ATOโgetting an ATO linking code.
Whether you’re trying to connect your myGovID to the Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM) or access ATO Online Services for Business, this step can feel confusing and time-consuming.
In this guide, TitanTax explains exactly how to get an ATO linking code, when you need it, and how to avoid common mistakes.
๐ Table of Contents
- When You Need an ATO Linking Code
- How to Contact the ATO for a Linking Code
- Step-by-Step: How to Get an ATO Linking Code
- ATO Phone Numbers for Linking Codes
- How Long an ATO Linking Code Lasts
- Example: Linking a Business in RAM
- Checklist Before Calling the ATO
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- FAQs
- When to Get Professional Help
What Is an ATO Linking Code?
An ATO linking code is a temporary, one-time-use security code provided by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) over the phone.
It is used to:
- Link your myGovID to a business (ABN)
- Access ATO Online Services
- Complete identity verification when automatic checks fail
Think of it as a manual verification step to protect your sensitive tax and business data.
When You Need an ATO Linking Code
You may need a linking code in the following situations:
โ Linking your ABN to RAM for the first time
โ Setting up ATO Online Services for Business
โ Registering as a new company director
โ When your identity cannot be verified online
โ If your details donโt match ATO or ABR records
๐ This is especially common for:
- New businesses
- Directors with limited ATO history
- Complex structures like trusts or SMSFs
ATO Linking Code Contact: How to Request One
To get an ATO linking code, you must contact the ATO directly.
Important:
- โ You cannot request it online
- โ Your accountant cannot request it for you
- โ You must call and verify your identity personally
Step-by-Step: How to Get an ATO Linking Code
Follow this simple process:
1. Set Up Your myGovID
Ensure your myGovID has Standard or Strong identity strength.
2. Log in to RAM
Go to the Relationship Authorisation Manager and attempt to link your ABN.
3. Trigger the Linking Code Request
If verification fails, you will be prompted to contact the ATO.
4. Call the ATO
Dial the correct number (see below).
5. Verify Your Identity
Be ready to provide:
- TFN
- ABN
- Date of birth
- ATO document (e.g., Notice of Assessment)
6. Receive Your Code
The ATO officer will give you a temporary linking code.
7. Enter the Code Immediately
Return to RAM and enter the code to complete the process.
โ๏ธ ATO Phone Numbers for Linking Codes
Use the correct number to avoid delays:
- Business Linking (RAM / ABN) โ 13 28 66
- Individual Linking (myGov) โ 13 28 61
๐ Always check the ATO website for updated contact details before calling.
โณ How Long Does an ATO Linking Code Last?
- Valid for 24 hours only
- One-time use
- Expires if not used quickly
๐จ Tip: Stay logged into RAM while calling the ATO so you can use the code immediately.
๐ Worked Example: Linking a Business in RAM
Scenario:
Sarah, a new company director, needs to link her company to RAM.
Steps:
- She logs into RAM using myGovID
- The system fails to verify her identity
- She calls the ATO (13 28 66)
- Provides TFN, ABN, and verification details
- Receives a linking code
- Enters the code immediately
โ Result: Successfully linked and gained full ATO access
โ Checklist Before Calling the ATO
Make sure you are fully prepared:
- โ myGovID (Standard/Strong) ready
- โ ABN available
- โ TFN confirmed
- โ Identity documents ready
- โ Logged into RAM
- โ Correct ATO phone number
โ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Calling the wrong number
โก Use 13 28 66 for business linking
Not having documents ready
โก Prepare TFN + ATO documents beforehand
Asking someone else to call
โก You must call personally
Letting the code expire
โก Use it immediately
โ FAQs
What is an ATO linking code?
A temporary security code used to link your myGovID to ATO systems.
Can my accountant get it for me?
No, you must request it yourself.
Do directors need linking codes?
Yes, especially when linking a business for the first time.
Why is RAM asking for a linking code?
Because your identity couldnโt be verified automatically.
What if the code expires?
You must call the ATO again.
Why is my code not working?
It may be:
- Entered incorrectly
- Expired
- Already used
When to Get Help From an Accountant
While you must request the code yourself, a professional can help if you have:
- Complex business structures (trusts, SMSFs)
- Multiple directors
- RAM authorisation issues
- Repeated verification failures
At TitanTax, we guide you step-by-step to ensure your setup is smooth and compliant.
Final Thoughts
Getting an ATO linking code may seem like a hurdleโbut itโs actually a critical security step.
With the right preparation:
- The process is quick
- The verification is straightforward
- And your business access is unlocked immediately
Need Help with ATO Setup?
TitanTax specialises in:
- ATO Online Services setup
- RAM authorisations
- Business compliance support
๐ Contact TitanTax today and get expert assistance with your ATO linking processโfast, simple, and stress-free.
