Seamlss offers two ways to check a client’s identity document. You choose one per person in the Identity Verification section of a client request. Either way, your firm then checks the client’s details against ATO records.
In Seamlss: + Request, Client Request, then the Identity Verification section.
Which do we recommend? DVS via Stripe Identity, especially if you do AML checks. The document is checked against government records and the client does a biometric check, so your firm isn’t judging a photo of a licence.
DVS via Stripe Identity #
+$5 inc GST per check, billed monthly. The client photographs their ID and takes a selfie. The document is checked through the Document Verification Service. The client must be 16 or older.
Under the ATO’s rules this is one proof of identity. Add a check of the client’s details against ATO records for the second.
Visual Identity + ATO Source Identity #
The client uploads photo ID, such as a licence, plus at least one ATO document, such as a Notice of Assessment. No extra charge. Your firm does the checking:
- Compare the person with their licence on a short video call. An uploaded photo on its own isn’t a visual check.
- Match the reference number or DIN on their ATO document against the ATO record for that client.
- Check their name, date of birth and other details in Online services for agents.
What the ATO accepts #
- A primary photo ID, such as a licence, checked against the person in person or on video. On its own, this is enough for most clients.
- Otherwise, two separate proofs. For example, a Stripe-checked licence plus two details matched against the client’s ATO record.
The full steps, including what to check at the ATO and how to record it, are in Verify a client, step by step. The rules come from the ATO’s agent client verification methods and TPB(GS) 42/2022.
Client overseas? The Stripe check accepts identity documents from most countries. See Can overseas clients verify their ID in Seamlss? For AML, AUSTRAC also accepts electronic checks: see Can I verify a client electronically?
Don’t check everyone by accident. ID checks are charged per use. If a client link includes an ID check, every existing client who uses it is checked too. Leave it off the link and send new clients a check separately.
Something not working? #
The client can’t complete the Stripe check
They may be under 16, or their document isn’t one DVS recognises. Switch them to Visual Identity + ATO Source Identity with a video check.
The documents arrived but nothing says verified
Your firm records the decision after checking the ATO record. See Verify a client, step by step.
Still stuck? Contact support and tell us what you see.
