The ATO has added new security features to the ATO app to help individuals and sole traders better protect their personal tax and superannuation information.

With scams and identity theft becoming more common, the app gives taxpayers more control over their ATO account and provides alerts when important account activity occurs.

Through the ATO app, you can:

• receive important security messages;
• lock or unlock your ATO account if something looks suspicious;
• verify whether a phone call is genuinely from the ATO;
• view your personal details and registered tax agent details;
• check key lodgement and payment dates;
• track the progress of your tax return;
• view your notice of assessment;
• access employment income and super information; and
• use tools such as myDeductions, the tax withheld calculator and ABN lookup.

The app can also send real-time security messages when certain changes are made to your account, such as bank account details being updated, a tax return being lodged, or another device being registered to your account.

If you receive an alert and the activity looks suspicious, you can lock your ATO account through the app. While your account is locked, refunds will not be issued and access to most personalised ATO online services will be restricted. However, your registered tax agent can still manage your tax affairs through their own ATO agent services.

The ATO app is free to download from the App Store or Google Play. To access personalised features, you will need a MyGov account linked to the ATO. You may also be prompted to register your device, which is a one-time process designed to help strengthen account security.

The app can be particularly useful around tax time, as it allows you to check whether pre-fill information is ready, view lodgement options and monitor the progress of your return.

Overall, the ATO app is a practical way to keep key tax and super information close at hand while adding another layer of protection to your account.