How to Manage ATO Communications in the Digital Age

by | 29 Jul 2025 | Tax and Accounting

In recent years, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has significantly expanded its use of digital platforms, changing how it communicates with taxpayers. Most ATO correspondence is now sent directly to you, not your tax agent. 

While New Leaf Advisory actively monitors and reviews all client correspondence sent to us by the ATO on our client’s behalf, you may not hear from us unless the correspondence has come directly to our office. 

To ensure you stay informed and compliant, here’s a quick guide to the key platforms used for managing ATO communications: 

myID  

Your Digital Key to Access Government Services 

myID (formerly myGovID) is the Australian Government’s digital identity tool that allows you to securely log in to ATO Online Services and other platforms. 

 Key points: 

  • myID is not an inbox – it is a secure login method 
  • Setup requires the app, ID verification, and selecting a security level 

myGov 

Your Primary Inbox for ATO Correspondence 

myGov is a secure portal linking you to services such as the ATO, Medicare, and Centrelink. 

Once your ATO account is linked, myGov becomes your primary inbox for tax-related communications, including notices of assessment, activity statements, and compliance reminders. 

 Please note: 

  • Notifications are sent by SMS or email as a courtesy only 
  • You must log in and check your myGov inbox regularly 

ATO Online Services for Business 

The main portal for businesses and SMSF’s to manage their obligations 

If you run a business or an SMSF, the ATO Online Services for Business portal is where you manage obligations such as: 

  • Lodging BAS and PAYG 
  • Updating ABN details 
  • Securely communicating with the ATO 

You’ll need to log in using your myID and link it to your business through the Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM).

Access ATO Online Services here

Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM) 

Authorising Access to Business Services 

RAM is a secure platform used to link your digital identity (myID) to your business. RAM is not a service portal. 


Key points: 

  • RAM allows business owners to authorise themselves and others (e.g. employees, tax agents) to access government services on behalf of the business 
  • RAM is not used to manage tax obligations directly 
  • RAM enables access to platforms like ATO Online Services for Business 
  • You must first set up your digital identity using myID before using RAM 
  • Once authorised via RAM, you can log in to ATO Online Services for Business to manage your business tax affairs 

Access RAM here

Your Responsibility 

While we are committed to supporting you and do monitor and action any ATO correspondence we receive, you are still responsible for: 

  • Regularly checking your myGov inbox for direct ATO communications 
  • Ensuring your myID is set up and maintained correctly 
  • Managing your business obligations via ATO Online Services for Business 

Need Help? 

If you receive any ATO correspondence directly that requires action, or if you’re unsure how to manage these platforms, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to guide you every step of the way. 

Jess Erskine

Jess Erskine

Practice Administrator

As New Leaf Advisory’s Practice Administrator, I play a vital role in daily operations. Collaborating closely with the Practice Manager, I manage office logistics, correspondence, and client interactions, ensuring smooth communication within our team. Additionally, I support the Director with administrative tasks such as managing registrations, bookkeeping, and scheduling. With a Bachelor’s in Commerce specialising in Management and a Diploma in Human Resource Management, coupled with four years of experience in accounting firms, I contribute to enhancing our team’s effectiveness and ensuring seamless operations at New Leaf Advisory.

While we believe the human touch can never be replaced, we pride ourselves on a modern, innovative approach.

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