Changing Accountants in 2027? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re planning to change accountants in 2027, there will soon be an extra step before your new accountant can access your tax information.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is expanding its client to agent linking process to include individuals and sole traders.
This process already applies to many businesses. The ATO now plans to extend it to individual taxpayers to improve security and protect personal information.
Here’s what the changes mean for you.
What Is Client to Agent Linking?
Client to agent linking is a security process that allows you to approve a registered tax agent to act on your behalf.
Previously, accountants could generally add new individual clients to their ATO client lists without a separate online approval from the client.
Under the new system, you’ll need to approve the connection before your new accountant can access your ATO information.
This gives you more control over who can access your tax records.
When Will the Changes Start?
The ATO has outlined a staged rollout:
- March 2027: A pilot program is expected to begin with selected tax and BAS agents.
- March to October 2027: The ATO plans to test and improve the process.
- November 2027: The new system is expected to be introduced more widely for individuals and sole traders.
These dates are planned and may change.
For now, most individual taxpayers don’t need to do anything.
How Will the New Process Work?
The new process is expected to be straightforward.
- Choose your accountant. Engage a new registered tax agent.
- Receive a linking request. Your accountant starts the process through the ATO.
- Review the request. Log in through the ATO app or ATO online services linked to myGov.
- Approve your accountant. Confirm that you want the accountant to act on your behalf.
- Complete the connection. Your accountant