Understanding ATO’s Agent-Client Linking: A Seamlss Guide

The Agent-Client Linking process, introduced by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), aims to ensure a secure and streamlined interaction between tax agents and businesses, facilitating accurate tax-related information exchange.

This process is designed for businesses and their Tax and BAS agents. It necessitates individuals to have a myGovID to participate.

Entities are required to nominate their agent via the new agent nomination feature in Online services for business before the agent can add them to their client list.

Initially, agents have a 7-day window post-nomination to add the client to their list, extending to 30 days starting 13 November 2023.

Agents won’t receive automated notifications upon client nomination; hence, they should instruct their clients to notify them once the nomination is completed. However Seamlss has a process for clients to notify the firm built into the app. 

Agents can generate a report in Online services for agents to view real-time nominations made by their clients.

The rollout is phased, eventually encompassing all entity types with an ABN, excluding sole traders, from 13 November 2023.

Seamlss provides a step-by-step guide during client onboarding to assist both entities and tax agents in navigating this new process seamlessly.

Seamlss aids communication through its customisable email feature post-onboarding, ensuring clients are well-informed about the new process.

Seamlss’s support team is available to provide guidance on resolving challenges encountered during the linking process.