Introduction Summary

This SOP provides a step-by-step guide on how to set up myGovID, establish a business in Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM), and authorise a Tax or BAS Agent to work with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

Table of Contents

1. Client–Agent Linking for Business Owners
   1. Process for appointing a new Tax or BAS Agent.
   2. Not applicable for businesses continuing with existing Agents.
2. Using ATO Online Services to Nominate an Agent
   1. Instructions for entities with an ABN.
   2. Guidance for existing and new users of Online Services for Business.
3. Getting Started in Online Services for Business (OSfB)
   1. Creating a personal digital identity (myGovID).
   2. Authorising representatives through Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM).
4. Setting up myGovID – Step by Step
   1. Downloading the myGovID app.
   2. Entering personal details and providing proof of identity documents.
5. What is RAM?
   1. Understanding the Relationship Authorisation Manager's role.
6. Linking to a Business in RAM – Step by Step
   1. Logging in to myGovID and accessing RAM.
   2. Adding a business, linking authorizing representatives, and setting permissions.
7. Troubleshooting
   1. Addressing issues with ABN not found, trust entities, and "Strong Identity Strength."
8. Nominating an Agent Using OSfB
   1. Advising business owners on the nomination process.
   2. Instructions for clients nominating an agent in OSfB.
9. What to Expect When Nominating an Agent (Screenshots)
   1. Visual guide for entering registered agent number (RAN) and practice name.
10. A Note About Online Services for Agents (OSfA)
    1. Coexistence of Tax Agents and BAS Agents in OSfA.
    2. Importance of not inadvertently removing BAS Agents.
11. Problem and Solution: Removing a BAS Agent
    1. Consequences of unintentional removal.
    2. Appropriate appointment of Tax Agents to avoid issues.
12. Agent Access to OSfB
    1. Initiating the process for BAS Agents needing OSfB access.
    2. Designating BAS Agents as authorized users by business owners.

Steps

Client–Agent Linking for Business Owners:

• If Appointing a New Agent:
  1. From November 13th, entities with an ABN need to nominate a new Tax/BAS Agent in ATO Online Services for Business.
  2. Existing Agents for businesses with ABN don't require changes.
• For Online Services for Business Users:
  1. Log in and nominate an agent through the agent details tab.
• For New Online Services Users:
  1. Obtain myGovID for personal digital identity.
  2. Link myGovID to ABN in RAM.
  3. Authorise others to act on behalf (optional).
  4. Log in to Online Services for Business and nominate the agent.
  5. Notify the nominated agent.

Setting up myGovID – Step by Step:

1. Download the myGovID app.
2. Enter personal details.
3. Choose identity strength (basic, standard, or strong).
4. Provide required proof of identity documents.

Linking to a Business in RAM – Step by Step:

1. Log in to myGovID and access RAM.
2. Add the business in RAM using ABN or ACN.
3. Link authorising representatives and set permissions.
4. Submit the request, manage linked representatives, and complete the notification and approval process.

Nominating an Agent Using OSfB:

1. Business owners nominate agents via Online Services for Business.
2. Nomination process includes searching for the agent, checking details, and submitting the nomination.
3. Notify the nominated agent within 28 days.

Agent Access to OSfB:

1. BAS Agents may need access for SGC Statements.
2. Business owners can designate BAS Agents as authorized users.

This guide provides a comprehensive guide for businesses and agents interacting with the ATO through myGovID, RAM, and Online Services for Business. For detailed instructions on each process, refer to the corresponding section.

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