Why we ask for your TFN

We are authorised to collect your tax file number (TFN) under the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (SIS). Supplying your TFN is voluntary and it is not an offence if you choose not to provide it.

We are required by law to take the necessary steps to properly safeguard your TFN, and our intention is to use it only for lawful superannuation purposes, including to facilitate the search for and consolidation of your superannuation accounts, by seeking information from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and/or a superannuation entity.*

A record of your TFN will be made for ongoing taxation and superannuation purposes. We may disclose your TFN to another superannuation provider if your benefits are transferred, unless you instruct us in writing not to disclose it to any other fund.

*Please note: future legislation may result in changes to these purposes.

Why it’s important to provide your TFN to us

• Members who have not provided their TFN will have contributions taxed at the highest marginal tax rate.
• Your HESTA account will be able to accept after-tax contributions. If you are eligible, you may be entitled to a government co-contribution on any personal after-tax contributions you make.
• No additional tax will be deducted when you start withdrawing your super benefits (other than the tax usually deducted from super).
• It will make tracing different super accounts in your name much easier, so you can combine all your super accounts into one (if you wish) and receive all super benefits due to you when you retire.

What we would do if you provide consent to use your TFN to search and combine your super accounts

We will use your tax file number to search for your other super accounts using a facility provided by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), and, to transfer any ATO held monies identified through a search to your HESTA account. You can change your authorisation at any time through Member Online.