An ABN is a number that identifies your business. It doesn't replace your tax file number. Find out how to register an ABN. You'll need it for tax and other business activities.
An ABN is a unique 11 digit number that identifies your business to the government and community. You can use an ABN to:
Not everyone needs an ABN. To get one you need to be running a business or other enterprise.
Visit the Australian Business Register (ABR) website to find out about your entitlement to an ABN.
If you apply for an ABN and you’re not entitled to one, your application may be refused. The reason for refusal will be explained to you by the Australian Taxation Office.
Before you register for an ABN, make sure you’ve got the required information.
You can apply for an ABN and other key business registrations through the Business Registration Service. Before you register, make sure you have:
You'll find out online about your ABN as soon as you’ve completed your application – as long as you provide all the required information.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will review your application within 20 business days if:
The ATO may contact you for more information.
You can register a business name at the same time as your ABN application if you use the Business Registration Service. If you don’t, you’ll need to go back to the Business Registration Service to register your business name.
Make sure you understand the difference between your ABN and your registered business name. Find more information on our register your business name page.