An Australian Business Number (ABN) is a unique 11-digit identifier for businesses in Australia. This article explains how to apply for an ABN, update your details or cancel your regisration, plus everything else you need to manage your ABN.
When do I need an ABN?
Not everyone’s entitled to an ABN but if you’re running a business or working as a contractor, you might need to apply for one.
You usually don’t need an ABN unless your business earns over $75,000 a year – at which point you must register for GST. But you may decide to apply for an ABN sooner as you need an ABN to:
operate in the GST system and claim the GST credits you’re entitled to
enter the pay as you go (PAYG) withholding system
offer fringe benefits to your employees.
How do I apply for an ABN?
Worked out you're entitled to an ABN? You can apply online for free through the Australian Business Register (ABR).
There’s no age limit to get ABN – anyone can apply! But you’ll need your TFN and identity documents handy when you do.
If your application is successful, you’ll be issued with your 11-digit ABN immediately. You can also check the ABN Lookup this opens in a new window at any time to see when your ABN has been successfully processed.
It's your responsibility to keep your ABN details up to date. You mustupdate your ABN details this opens in a new window on the ABR in 28 days of any changes. This includes things like your business address or if you start offering new services (like getting a liquor licence or providing accommodation).
Generally, we’ll cancel your ABN if it looks like it isn’t being used.
If you still need your ABN this opens in a new window for the same business structure, you can reapply through the ABR. Just enter your previous ABN and current business details on the application. Once your ABN has been reactivated, you'll be ready to dive back into business!
Can I backdate my ABN?
Yes! You can backdate your ABN when you submit a new application by choosing an earlier starting date. The date on your application should reflect when your business started operating.
Where can I find my ABN branch number?
You can find your ABN branch number any time using our ATO online services or online services for business.
After you login, select Tax > Accounts > Tax accounts. Your ABN branch number is displayed under the activity statement section. It's the three-digit number before the account name you have registered. If you have more than one branch, an account will display for each.
How do I get an ABN registration certificate?
If you have access to Online services for business, you can access your ABN certificate under My profile > Communication > History.
Closing up shop? If you’re no longer entitled to an ABN, you’ll need to tell us in 28 days. Generally, people cancel their ABN if their business:
has been sold
has closed down
no longer operates in Australia, or provides goods and services connected to Australia.
Before you cancel your ABN, make sure all your lodgments, payments and reporting obligations are up to date with us and other agencies. If you have pay as you go (PAYG) withholding, remember to cancel that too!
When you're ready, the quickest and easiest way to cancel your ABN is online using myID.
Your ABN details allow your customers to check your business registration is current. There are some situations where your ABN details can be kept private.
You can make a request for non-disclosure of your ABN details if:
there’s risk to your personal safety or the safety of anyone associated with your business.
there are exceptional circumstances that support your request.
