If you run a business, you generally need one. Without an ABN, businesses can have tax withheld from payments, and you cannot register a business name or claim GST credits.

The ATO does not charge for an ABN. Our fee is $99 and covers preparing and lodging your application and support if the ATO queries it.

Can I get an ABN without a TFN?

Yes, a TFN is optional. Providing one helps the ATO confirm your identity faster, so it is worth including if you have it.

How long does it take to get an ABN?

Many applications are processed quickly once lodged. If the ATO needs to check your identity or details, it can take longer.

Can I use my ABN for a business name?

Yes. You need an ABN to register a business name, and the ABN holder is the owner of the name. A sole trader can register a name under their own ABN.

What is the difference between an ABN and an ACN?

An ABN is an 11-digit number issued by the ATO for tax and business dealings. An ACN is a 9-digit number issued by ASIC to a registered company. A company has both.

Can I cancel and reactivate my ABN?

Yes. You can cancel an ABN when you stop trading. If you start trading again, you can reactivate the same ABN rather than apply for a new one.

Does a sole trader and a company use the same ABN?

No. A sole trader holds an ABN in their own name, while a company holds its own ABN separate from its owners. Which you need depends on how you set up your business.

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ABN Re-activation

Who is this ABN for?

Choose the entity type the ABN was held under.

Company An ABN for an existing Australian company with an ACN. Sole Trader An ABN for an individual trading in their own name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an ABN?: If you run a business, you generally need one. Without an ABN, businesses can have tax withheld from payments, and you cannot register a business name or claim GST credits.
Is an ABN free?: The ATO does not charge for an ABN. Our fee is $99 and covers preparing and lodging your application and support if the ATO queries it.
Can I get an ABN without a TFN?: Yes, a TFN is optional. Providing one helps the ATO confirm your identity faster, so it is worth including if you have it.
How long does it take to get an ABN?: Many applications are processed quickly once lodged. If the ATO needs to check your identity or details, it can take longer.
Can I use my ABN for a business name?: Yes. You need an ABN to register a business name, and the ABN holder is the owner of the name. A sole trader can register a name under their own ABN.
What is the difference between an ABN and an ACN?: An ABN is an 11-digit number issued by the ATO for tax and business dealings. An ACN is a 9-digit number issued by ASIC to a registered company. A company has both.
Can I cancel and reactivate my ABN?: Yes. You can cancel an ABN when you stop trading. If you start trading again, you can reactivate the same ABN rather than apply for a new one.
Does a sole trader and a company use the same ABN?: No. A sole trader holds an ABN in their own name, while a company holds its own ABN separate from its owners. Which you need depends on how you set up your business.