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How to perform an ABN check and verify Australian business details

21/09/2023 by
The Marketing Team
Verifying an Australian Business Number (ABN) is essential for businesses in Australia. An ABN check confirms if a business is legally registered. Using the right tools, like ABN Lookup, helps businesses avoid costly mistakes. A quick guide to conducting an ABN check An ABN check helps confirm if a business is legally registered in Australia. Using […]
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Verifying an Australian Business Number (ABN) is essential for businesses in Australia. An ABN check confirms if a business is legally registered. Using the right tools, like ABN Lookup, helps businesses avoid costly mistakes.

A quick guide to conducting an ABN check

An ABN check helps confirm if a business is legally registered in Australia. Using ABN Lookup, you can verify ABN status, business name, GST registration and other key details. Checking an ABN can help prevent fraud, tax issues and compliance risks. Always confirm a supplier’s ABN details before making payments or signing contracts.

What is an ABN?

An Australian Business Number (ABN) is an 11-digit registration number that identifies a business in Australia. It helps businesses interact with the government, the Australian Business Register (ABR), and other organisations. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) also use it for tax and legal purposes.

Why businesses need an ABN

A business must have an ABN to:

  • Register for GST if turnover exceeds the GST threshold.
  • Issue invoices to clients and claim GST credits.
  • Avoid tax withholding at the top rate when receiving payments.
  • Identify a business when dealing with suppliers and customers.
  • Access government services and apply for business grants.

Without an ABN, a business can’t legally operate in many cases. Some structures, like a partnership or Pty Ltd company, need to register before they can trade, while certain entities, such as hobbyists or individuals not carrying on an enterprise, may not need an ABN. It's essential to determine if your activities constitute a business under ATO guidelines.

A diverse team of business professionals verifying an ABN using a laptop in a modern office setting. Three colleagues are reviewing printed documents, ensuring compliance and legitimacy.

How to use ABN lookup to verify a business

ABN Lookup is a free online tool provided by the Australian Business Register (ABR). It lets users check the ABN details of businesses registered in Australia. The tool shows key information, including an ABN's status, entity type and GST registration. Businesses, suppliers and customers can use it to confirm if a business is legal and active.

Steps to verify an ABN

Follow these steps to find and verify an ABN:

  1. Go to ABN Lookup – Visit the ABN Lookup website (abr.business.gov.au).
  2. Enter search details – Type the ABN, business name or ACN in the search bar.
  3. Check the details – Review the registration number, status, GST details and business name.
  4. Confirm the business is active – If the ABN is cancelled or inactive, the business can’t legally trade.
  5. Verify additional details – Check if the business name matches official records and confirm the GST status if needed.

Common mistakes to avoid

Users often make errors when searching for an ABN. Avoid these mistakes:

  • Typing errors – Ensure the ABN, business name or ACN is correct.
  • Using an outdated ABN – Always check the ABN status to see if it is active.
  • Confusing an ACN with an ABN – An ACN is for companies, while an ABN is for all business types.

Using ABN Lookup is the right way to confirm a business is active and legally registered.

Why you should verify an ABN before doing business

Checking an Australian Business Number (ABN) before working with a supplier or business helps protect you from legal and financial risks. An invalid or inactive ABN can lead to fraud, tax penalties and compliance issues.

Risks of working with an invalid ABN

If a business provides an invalid or cancelled ABN, you may face:

  • Fraud – Scammers can use fake ABNs to appear legitimate.
  • Tax penalties – The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) may require you to withhold tax at the highest rate.
  • Unenforceable contracts – If a business is not legally registered, agreements may not hold up in court.
  • Loss of GST claims – If a supplier is not registered for GST, you can’t claim GST credits.

PAYG withholding obligations

The ATO requires businesses to withhold tax at the top rate if a supplier does not provide a valid ABN. This rule stops businesses from avoiding tax. If you don’t withhold the correct amount, you may need to pay it later.

Real-world example

Sarah runs a Pty Ltd company and hired a contractor without checking their ABN details. The ABN Lookup tool later showed the contractor’s ABN was cancelled. Sarah had to withhold tax at the highest rate and report the issue to the ATO. She also lost the ability to claim GST credits for the work.

Always check an ABN before making payments or signing contracts. Doing so helps protect your business name, finances and legal standing.

Who can apply for an ABN, and how to register

An Australian Business Number (ABN) is available to businesses that operate in Australia. It helps businesses interact with the government, customers and suppliers. Not all businesses need an ABN, but many must have one to legally trade.

Business types that qualify for an ABN

The following business structures can apply for an ABN:

Business Type ABN Requirement
Sole trader Must apply if carrying on a business
Partnership Must apply in the partnership name
Company (Pty Ltd) Must apply through ASIC before trading
Trust Must apply if carrying on a business

If you only earn income as an employee, you can’t apply for an ABN.

Information needed to register

Before applying, gather the following details:

  • Business name and structure.
  • Tax file number (TFN).
  • ABN details of business associates (if applicable).
  • Business location and contact information.
  • Expected business activity.

Steps to apply for an ABN

Follow these steps to get an ABN through the Australian Business Register (ABR):

  1. Go to the ABR website – Visit abr.gov.au.
  2. Select "Apply for an ABN" – Click the application link.
  3. Enter business details – Provide your business name, structure and TFN.
  4. Confirm your identity – Use your tax records or previous ABN details.
  5. Submit your application – If approved, your ABN is issued instantly.

If the ABR needs more information, your application may take longer.

How to check if an Australian business is properly registered

Before working with a business, you should confirm it is properly registered. A valid Australian Business Number (ABN) does not always mean a business has met all legal requirements. You may also need to check for an ACN, GST registration and a registered business name.

Difference between an ABN and ACN

An ABN and ACN serve different purposes. Not all businesses need an ACN, but all companies do.

Identifier Purpose Who Needs It? Issued By
ABN Identifies a business for tax and trading Sole traders, partnerships, companies and trusts Australian Business Register (ABR)
ACN Identifies a company registered under ASIC Only required for companies (Pty Ltd) Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)

Other legal registrations businesses may need

A business may require other registrations to trade legally:

  • GST registration – Needed if the annual turnover is $75,000 or more.
  • Business name registration – Required if the trading name is different from the legal name.
  • Licences and permits – Certain industries need specific approvals.
  • Australian Business Register (ABR) details – Must be up to date.

Checklist to verify a business

Before signing a contract or making a payment, check the following:

  • ABN Lookup – Confirm the ABN status is active.
  • ASIC register – If dealing with a company, check its ACN and registration details.
  • GST status – Ensure the business is registered if required.
  • Business name – Confirm it is registered under the correct legal name.
  • Licences – Check industry-specific requirements.

Verifying a business helps prevent fraud and ensures you deal with a legal and registered entity.

A woman of color reviewing a contract and verifying a supplier’s ABN using a tablet in a modern workspace. The supplier presents documents, emphasizing the importance of due diligence in business transactions.

How to find your company’s ABN if you’ve lost it

If you have lost your Australian Business Number (ABN), you can retrieve it through several methods. Your ABN is linked to your business name and tax records, so you should be able to find it using official sources.

Where to retrieve a lost ABN

Try these methods to find your ABN:

  1. Search the ABN Lookup tool
    • Visit ABN Lookup (abr.business.gov.au).
    • Enter your business name or ACN in the search bar.
    • Check if the ABN is active or cancelled.
  2. Check business tax documents
    • Look at previous invoices, tax returns or BAS statements.
    • The ABN is usually listed on official documents sent to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
  3. Contact the Australian Business Register (ABR)
    • Call the ABR on 139 ABN (139 226).
    • Provide business details, such as your name, ACN or registration number.
    • Verify your identity before receiving the ABN details.

If you find yourself frequently losing your ABN details, we recommend saving them in a secure location that you can access at any time, such as via Business Kitz software platform. Utilising Business Kitz secure software platform, you can save your business information, employee, customer and supplier data in one place and check back at any time.

Troubleshooting guide for common issues

If you still can’t find your ABN, check the following:

  • Wrong business name – Ensure you enter the correct name in the ABN Lookup tool.
  • ABN cancellation – Your ABN may be cancelled if you haven’t reported business activity.
  • Incorrect registration details – If your ABN does not appear, check if you used the right business register.
  • Multiple business names – If you operate under different names, search by ACN instead.

If these steps don’t work, you may need to apply for an ABN again.

How to update or change your ABN details

Businesses must keep their ABN details up to date. If key information changes, you must update your details on the Australian Business Register (ABR) within 28 days. Failing to do so can lead to compliance issues, penalties or missed business opportunities.

When to update your ABN

You should change your ABN details if:

  • Your business address or contact details change.
  • Your entity structure changes (e.g., from sole trader to company).
  • You register or cancel GST.
  • Your business name changes.
  • You stop trading and need to cancel your ABN.

How to update ABN details on the ABR website

Follow these steps to update your details online:

  1. Go to the ABR website – Visit abr.gov.au.
  2. Log in – Use your myGovID to access the ABR service.
  3. Select "Update ABN details" – Choose the information you need to change.
  4. Enter the new details – Update your business name, address, GST status or other details.
  5. Submit the changes – Confirm the updates and keep a record of your files.

Risks of outdated ABN details

If your ABN details are incorrect, you may:

  • Miss important notices from the government, ASIC or the ATO.
  • Face penalties for failing to register key changes.
  • Lose business if suppliers or clients can't verify your details.

Keeping your ABN details updated helps you stay compliant and avoid legal or tax issues.

How to ensure you are working with the right supplier

Before working with a supplier, you should verify their ABN details. This ensures they are a legitimate business and helps you avoid tax and legal issues. An invalid ABN can mean the supplier is not legally registered, which could lead to financial risks for your business.

What a legitimate supplier should have

A reliable supplier should meet these requirements:

  • A valid ABN – Check their ABN status on the ABN Lookup tool.
  • A registered business name – Ensure their business name matches official records.
  • GST registration – If the supplier earns over $75,000, they must be registered for GST.
  • A physical business address – Confirm their location is real and not a fake or shared address.
  • Clear contact details – A legitimate business will provide a phone number, email and office address.

Red flags for unreliable suppliers

Look for these warning signs when verifying a supplier:

  • No ABN or a cancelled ABN – A business can’t trade legally without an active ABN.
  • Different business and trading names – If the supplier’s business name does not match official records, investigate further.
  • No GST registration – If a supplier should be registered for GST but isn’t, they may be avoiding tax.
  • Fake or vague contact details – A supplier that only provides a mobile number or generic email may not be reliable.
  • Unverified online presence – No website, online reviews or professional listings can indicate a scam.

Always check a supplier’s ABN and registration details before entering a contract or making a payment. This helps protect your business name, finances and reputation.

The best tool to verify an ABN quickly and easily

Verifying an Australian Business Number (ABN) helps businesses confirm the legitimacy of suppliers and customers. The ABN Lookup tool is the official government service, but some third-party tools offer extra features for efficiency.

ABN Lookup vs third-party verification tools

Feature ABN Lookup Third-Party Tools
Free access ✅ Yes ❌ Some charge fees
Real-time updates ✅ Yes ✅ Yes (if linked to the ABR)
Bulk lookup ❌ No ✅ Available in some tools
Integration with accounting software ❌ No ✅ Some offer Xero or MYOB integration
Advanced reporting ❌ No ✅ Some provide automated reports

Key features to look for in an ABN verification tool

A good ABN verification tool should have:

  • Real-time updates – Ensures ABN status and details are accurate.
  • Bulk lookup – Allows businesses to check multiple suppliers or clients at once.
  • Integration with accounting software – Syncs with platforms like Xero, MYOB or QuickBooks.
  • Automated compliance checks – Flags inactive ABNs or missing GST registrations.

Best tool for your business

  • Small businesses – ABN Lookup is free and reliable.
  • Mid-sized businesses – A tool with bulk search and compliance alerts can save time.
  • Large enterprises – Integration with accounting software and automated reports helps manage multiple suppliers.

Choosing the right tool depends on business size and compliance needs.

Business Kitz can assist you to further streamline your business processes, with over 100 document templates to choose from to help your business remain compliant in our document library, generate templates using our document creator tool, store and manage documents in Business Kitz document vault, and seamlessly send and sign documents through Business Kitz document signing tool plus many more features designed to help your business run efficiently and cost-effectively.

A business owner updating his ABN details on a laptop in a modern, well-lit office. A notepad and smartphone are placed neatly on the desk, symbolizing an organized and efficient workflow.

Frequently asked questions about ABN's

How do I make sure an ABN is valid?

You can check an ABN using ABN Lookup on the Australian Business Register (ABR) website. Enter the ABN, business name or ACN in the search bar to see if it’s active.

Does a company need an ABN?

Yes, a company must have an ABN to trade legally in Australia. It also needs an ACN, which is issued by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

How do I check an ACN?

You can check an ACN using the ASIC Connect website. Enter the ACN to find company registration details, including business status and ABN details.

How do I get an ABN for my business?

To get an ABN, apply through the ABR website. You must provide details like your business name, structure and products or services. If approved, you will receive an ABN instantly.

What information do I need to register for an ABN?

To register, you must include your business name, tax file number, contact details and business activities. If applying for a new business, ensure your details match official records.

What is the first step to getting an ABN?

The first step is confirming your business is eligible. Then, apply through the ABR website and provide all the required details.

Do sole traders need to register for an ABN?

Sole traders need to register for an ABN if they operate a business in Australia. If they only earn income as an employee, they do not need one.

Is there a limit to how many ABNs a person can have?

A person can only have one ABN per business. If they operate multiple businesses, each must have a unique ABN.

Can I get an ABN if I only sell material goods?

Yes, you can apply for an ABN if you sell material goods or provide services as a business.

Can a family business apply for an ABN?

Yes, a family business can apply for an ABN if it operates as a sole trader, partnership or company.

What happens if I don’t have an ABN?

Without an ABN, other businesses may withhold tax at the highest rate when paying you. You also can’t claim GST credits or register for certain business benefits.

Can I trade without an ABN in Australia?

A small business may trade without an ABN in limited cases, but it is recommended to register. Most businesses need an ABN to issue invoices, claim GST and operate legally.

What if I can’t find my ABN?

If you can’t find your ABN, check ABN Lookup, old tax records or contact the ABR for help.

Do I need an ABN to import or export?

Yes, businesses that import or export products or services need an ABN to deal with customs and tax authorities.

Can I apply for an ABN if I am not in Australia?

You can apply for an ABN if you operate a business in Australia, even if you are based overseas.

What if I no longer need my ABN?

If you stop trading, you must cancel your ABN through the ABR. If you reopen, you may need to apply again.

Can I change my ABN details later?

Yes, you can update your ABN details through the ABR website if your business details change.

Why ABN verification is essential for business success

Verifying an Australian Business Number (ABN) helps protect your business from fraud, tax issues and compliance risks. Before working with a supplier or client, always check their ABN details to confirm they are legally registered.

Using ABN Lookup is the easiest way to verify an ABN status. ABN Lookup provides real-time updates on business names, GST registration and other key details. Third-party tools can also help by offering bulk lookups and integration with accounting software.

Keeping your own ABN details up to date is just as important. If your business name, address or entity structure changes, update your details with the Australian Business Register (ABR). This ensures your records stay accurate and compliant.

Managing ABNs, compliance, and business documents can take time. Business Kitz offers tools that help businesses stay organised and meet their legal obligations. Using the right tools makes managing compliance easier and reduces risks. Get started with a free account today!

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