Apply for an ABN: free online steps for your business

Published Wednesday 22 April 2026

Table of contents

• What is an ABN and why do you need it?
• Before you apply for an ABN
• How much does an ABN cost?
• Be prepared: five things to check before you apply for an ABN
• How do I get an ABN?
• What happens when I apply for an ABN?
• What other registrations do I need?
• Ready to get your ABN?
• FAQs on applying for an ABN

Key takeaways

• Apply for your ABN for free through the official Australian Business Register or Business Registration Service, and avoid third-party websites that charge unnecessary fees for the same process.
• Prepare your tax file number, business details, and associate information before you start your application, as providing your TFN allows you to receive your ABN instantly rather than waiting up to 20 business days.
• Register for GST, PAYG withholding, and a business name at the same time as your ABN to avoid completing multiple separate applications later.
• Cancel your ABN through the Australian Business Register as soon as you stop trading to avoid unnecessary compliance obligations.

What is an ABN and why do you need it?

An Australian business number (ABN) is an 11-digit identifier that makes it easier for businesses and all levels of government to interact for tax and legal purposes. Learn more about business registration obligations. It applies to all business types, from sole traders to companies.

Most businesses earning over $75,000 annually need an ABN to:

• Invoice customers: Include your ABN on invoices and avoid withholding tax
• Register for GST: Required for businesses with turnover above $75,000
• Open business bank accounts: Banks require an ABN for business accounts
• Claim business tax deductions: Essential for legitimate business expenses

You can read more about what it is, who needs to get an ABN, and the advantages of having one in our article What is an ABN?

Before you apply for an ABN

You can apply for an ABN if you're starting or running an enterprise in Australia. An enterprise means you're carrying on a business, not just earning occasional hobby income.

Before you apply, confirm you meet the eligibility requirements. The Australian Business Register may reject applications from individuals who aren't genuinely operating a business. Learn more in our guide on how to register a business.

How much does an ABN cost?

Applying for an ABN is free when you use the official Australian Business Register (ABR) or Business Registration Service.

Some third-party websites charge fees to submit your application, but this is unnecessary. You can complete the entire process yourself online at no cost.

Be prepared: five things to check before you apply for an ABN

Gathering your documents before you start helps you complete the application in one sitting. With all details ready, you can receive your ABN instantly.

Have these five items on hand:

1. Australian company number (if applicable)

If your business is a company, you must first register with ASIC under the Corporations Act 2001. ASIC then gives you a nine-digit Australian company number (ACN).

You'll receive:

• Australian Company Number (ACN) or Australian Registered Body Number (ARBN)
• Director ID number (required for all directors)
• MyGovID account for online applications

You'll also need to apply for a Director ID number through the Australian Business Registry Services and set up your MyGovID.

2. Business details

Provide these key details:

• Legal business name: Use your registered business name or personal name if operating as a sole trader
• Main business activity: Your primary income source, for example consulting, retail or construction
• Business locations: Street address, phone, and email for each physical location

3. Tax file numbers

Providing tax file numbers (TFNs) helps your application go through straight away. You need:

• Your TFN (if you're an Australian resident over 18)
• Business associates' TFNs (partners, directors, or key stakeholders)
• Alternative: If you don't provide TFNs, the Australian Business Register may take up to 20 business days to approve your ABN

4. Contact and associate details

An authorised contact is someone who can make changes to your ABN registration. You'll need to provide the following details for this person:

• Personal details: Name, position, phone, email, addresses
• Professional details: Tax or BAS agent registration number (if applicable)

For individual associates such as partners or directors, you'll need to provide:

• Personal information: Name, date of birth, position, TFN
• Alternative: Residential address if no TFN provided

For organisation associates, you'll need to provide:

• Business details: Legal name, ACN/ARBN, ABN, TFN
• Alternative: Address and formation date if no TFN provided

5. Business start date

Your ABN starts from the date you choose. Pick the date you'll begin trading. You must choose a date within six months of your application.

How do I get an ABN?

You can apply for an ABN online yourself or through a registered tax agent. Both methods use the same government system.

If you choose to apply yourself online, here's what to expect:

• Cost: Free through the Business Registration Service
• Processing time: Instant approval when you provide TFNs
• Best for: Sole traders and straightforward business structures

If you prefer to use a tax agent, here's what to expect:

• Cost: $50–$200 depending on the agent
• Processing time: Same as do-it-yourself, but with professional review
• Best for: Companies, partnerships, or first-time applicants wanting guidance

What happens when I apply for an ABN?

Most ABN applications are processed immediately. If you provide your tax file number, you'll typically receive your ABN within minutes of submitting.

Your application will result in one of three outcomes:

A successful application

You receive your 11-digit ABN immediately when you provide complete TFN information.

Once approved, take these steps:

1. Save your confirmation by printing or downloading your ABN certificate
2. Register for GST, PAYG withholding, or a business name if needed
3. Request non-disclosure of sensitive details through the ABR non-disclosure request page

A reference number

If the system can't verify your details automatically, you'll receive a reference number instead. Processing takes up to 20 business days.

While you wait:

1. Track your application through ABN Lookup using your reference number
2. Respond promptly if contacted for additional information
3. Expect your ABN and confirmation letter within 14 days of approval

An unsuccessful application

If your application is refused, you'll receive a refusal number and explanation letter within 14 days.

You can:

1. Review the letter to understand why your application was rejected
2. Request a formal review if you believe the decision was incorrect
3. Reapply after addressing the issues identified in the refusal

What other registrations do I need?

You can register for GST, PAYG withholding, and a business name at the same time as your ABN. Keep in mind that if you choose to register for GST, generally you must stay registered for at least 12 months. Learn more about GST registration requirements. Bundling saves you from completing multiple applications later.

Here's what you need to know about GST registration:

• Register when your turnover reaches $75,000 (or $150,000 for not-for-profits). See the ATO GST registration guide for details
• Complete registration within 21 days of reaching the threshold. See the ATO GST registration guide for details
• Monitor your turnover monthly as you approach the limit
• Register voluntarily if you want to claim GST credits before reaching the threshold, but note that backdating a GST registration is limited to four years. See the ATO GST registration rules for details

Ready to get your ABN?

Getting your ABN is the first step in making your business official. With the right documents ready, you can complete your application and receive your ABN on the same day.

Need help managing your business once you're registered? Xero's cloud accounting software makes it easy to track income, manage GST, and stay on top of your finances from day one. Get one month free.

FAQs on applying for an ABN

Here are answers to common questions about the ABN application process.

How long does it take to get an ABN?

If you provide your tax file number during the application, you'll receive your ABN instantly. Without a TFN, processing can take up to 20 business days.

Can I apply for an ABN before I start trading?

Yes, you can apply for an ABN up to six months before you begin trading. Choose your intended start date when you apply.

Do I need an ABN if I'm a sole trader?

If you're running a business as a sole trader and earning over $75,000 annually, you need an ABN. It's also recommended even if you earn less, as it allows you to issue proper invoices and claim business deductions.

Can I cancel my ABN if I stop trading?

Yes, you can cancel your ABN through the Australian Business Register if you're no longer operating your business. It's important to cancel it to avoid unnecessary compliance obligations.

What's the difference between an ABN and an ACN?

An ABN is an 11-digit business number for all business types. An ACN is a nine-digit Australian company number specifically for companies registered with ASIC.