Identity theft and online fraud is increasing and it is important to remain vigilant to identity crime which can lead to concerns not only in the tax system, but for the broader financial community as well.

From the beginning of February, the Australia Taxation Office (ATO) began stronger identity checks of individuals, when speaking with them. In order to avoid errors and help stamp out tax fraud through identity crime.

These measures involve your identity being verified, using any three of the following documents:

At least one piece of current photo identification including

• Passport
• Driver’s license
• Government or student identity card

At least one other piece of identifying documentation

• Full birth certificate (not extract)
• Medicare card
• Recent bank statement (not credit card)

The identity check, once complete will last five years.

Please contact us if you have any questions regarding.