The Australian Business Number (ABN) is an important ID for businesses in Australia. Whether you are a sole trader, partnership, or company, you need your ABN for taxes, business deals, and following Australian laws.
If you lose it, don’t worry—there are easy ways to get your ABN back.
What Is an ABN and Why Is It Important?
An Australian Business Number (ABN) is an 11-digit identifier issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
It serves as your business’s unique identity for government and public dealings. Having an ABN is mandatory for most business activities in Australia, including:
- Issuing invoices and receiving payments
- Registering a business name
- Claiming Goods and Services Tax (GST) credits
- Registering for PAYG withholding
- Applying for trademarks or domain names
Not having an ABN can lead to penalties or withheld payments by customers. Therefore, keeping your ABN accessible and updated is crucial.
How to Find Your ABN?
If you’ve misplaced your ABN, here are the most effective ways to locate it:
1. Check Government Documents
Your ABN is often listed on official documents such as:
- Tax invoices
- Letters from government agencies like the ATO
- Business registration certificates
If you’ve recently registered your business or conducted transactions, these documents should be your first point of reference.
2. Use the ABN Lookup Tool
The ABN Lookup is a free online tool provided by the Australian Business Register (ABR). It allows you to search for any registered business’s ABN using:
- Your business name
- Your Australian Company Number (ACN) if applicable
To use this tool:
- Visit the ABN Lookup website.
- Enter your business name or ACN in the search bar.
- Review the results to find your ABN.
This tool is especially useful if you need to verify details about your business or others you’re dealing with.
3. Log Into Your Business Portal
If you manage your business through an online platform like MyGov or a private service provider, log in to access your ABN details. For example:
- Namecorp Clients: Log into the “My Office” portal where all legal certificates and your ABN are stored.
- Thriday Users: Your ABN might be displayed on your home dashboard alongside other account details.
4. Contact the ATO Directly
If you’re unable to find your ABN through the above methods, contact the ATO for assistance. Their customer service team can verify your identity and provide you with your ABN details over the phone or via email.
What If Your ABN Is Inactive?
If your ABN has been deactivated due to inactivity or changes in your business structure, you can reactivate it by submitting an online application through the Australian Business Register website. Once reactivated, it will appear as active on the ABR database.
How Can You Get a Free ABN?
Applying for an ABN is free if done directly through the Australian Business Register website or the government’s Business Registration Service. However, private agents may charge a fee for assistance with registration.
To apply:
- Gather required information such as your Tax File Number (TFN), business name, and location.
- Complete the online application form on the official website.
- If approved, you’ll receive your ABN immediately or within a few days.
