Misplacing your Australian Business Number (ABN) can be stressful, especially when you need it for tax or business-related activities. Your ABN is a unique identifier issued by the Australian Business Register (ABR) and managed by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Fortunately, there are several ways to retrieve your ABN quickly and securely. This guide will walk you through the steps to find your ABN and keep it safe for the future.
Quick Reference Table: Steps to Find Your ABN
| Step | Action | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Check ABR Website | Use the ABN Lookup tool to search for your ABN. | Business name or personal details (if a sole trader). |
| 2. Review ATO Correspondence | Look for your ABN in letters, tax returns, or BAS statements. | Access to past ATO communications. |
| 3. Check Internal Records | Search through invoices, contracts, or registration documents. | Business records (physical or digital). |
| 4. Log Into MyGov | Retrieve your ABN through the ATO section in MyGov. | MyGov credentials linked to your business account. |
| 5. Contact the ABR or ATO | Call the ATO or ABR for assistance in locating your ABN. | Proof of identity and registered business details. |
1. Check the ABR Website
The easiest way to find your ABN is by using the ABN Lookup tool. This public database allows you to search for your ABN using your business name, trading name, or your personal name (if you’re a sole trader).
Steps to Search:
- Visit ABN Lookup.
- Enter your business name or personal name in the search bar.
- Locate your ABN in the search results.
Remember, the ABN Lookup tool only works for businesses with an active or cancelled ABN. If your ABN is inactive, it will still appear in the search.
2. Review ATO Correspondence
Your ABN is often included in official correspondence from the ATO. Check these documents:
- Tax Returns: Your ABN will be listed in all business tax returns.
- BAS Statements: Any lodged BAS forms will contain your ABN.
- ATO Letters: General correspondence from the ATO often includes your ABN.
Pro Tip: Search your email inbox or physical mail for terms like “Australian Taxation Office” or “ABN” to locate these documents quickly.
3. Check Internal Business Records
If you’ve kept copies of your business registration documents, invoices, or contracts, your ABN may already be recorded there. Here are some places to check:
- Registration Paperwork: Your ABN is listed on the documents you received when registering your business.
- Invoices: Many businesses include their ABN on customer invoices.
- Contracts: Business contracts often display the ABN for verification purposes.
Keeping these records organised can save time in the future when you need to retrieve your ABN.
4. Log Into MyGov
If you’ve linked your MyGov account to your business profile, you can easily retrieve your ABN through the ATO section.
Steps to Retrieve Your ABN:
- Go to MyGov.
- Log in with your credentials.
- Navigate to the ATO section to view your business details, including your ABN.
Not linked yet? Follow the instructions on MyGov to link your business profile for easier access in the future.
5. Contact the ABR or ATO
If you’ve tried all other methods and still can’t locate your ABN, contact the ABR or ATO directly. Here’s how:
- ABR Contact: Call the ABR support line at 1300 139 226.
- ATO Contact: Reach the ATO business line at 13 28 66.
Be prepared to provide proof of identity, such as your driver’s licence or passport, and registered business details like your business name or trading name.
How to Prevent Future Loss of ABN
To avoid misplacing your ABN again, take the following steps:
- Secure Digital Storage: Save your ABN in a password-protected document or cloud storage service.
- Backup Records: Keep both physical and digital copies of your business registration documents.
- Use Accounting Software: Platforms like Xero or MYOB often store ABN details securely.
FAQs About ABN Retrieval
Q: Can I retrieve my ABN online?
Yes, you can use the ABN Lookup tool or log into MyGov to retrieve your ABN.
Q: What if my ABN is inactive or cancelled?
If your ABN is inactive or cancelled, it will still appear in the ABN Lookup tool, but you may need to apply for a new one if your business is operating again. Learn more about how to register for an ABN.
Q: Is my ABN the same as my company TFN?
No, your ABN is your public business identifier, while your TFN is private and used specifically for tax purposes.
Recovering your ABN doesn’t have to be complicated. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll have multiple ways to track it down. Once retrieved, take steps to secure it for future use and minimise unnecessary stress!
Need Help Finding or Registering Your ABN?
If you’ve lost your ABN or need a new one, Taxopia can help!
Our fast and affordable services make ABN registration and retrieval hassle-free.
Need further assistance? Contact our support team for guidance.