Add an ABN to a pre-2012 business name registration
If you registered your business name before 28 May 2012 you may not have an Australian Business Number (ABN) linked to your business name. You can add the ABN to your business name registration.
Before you start
Adding an ABN to your business name means that we can link your business name registration with the ABN recorded on the Australian Business Register (ABR). This helps people and businesses confirm your business details. For example, banks might expect you to have an ABN when you deal with them.
If you registered your business name with ASIC after 28 May 2012, you will already have an ABN linked to your business name.
There are different processes depending on who is adding the ABN:
- Add an ABN for names owned by individuals and partnerships
- Add an ABN for names owned by companies, trusts, joint ventures, or associations
You must make sure that the ABN holder matches the business name holder. If it does not match, we will not accept it.
If there is a typographical difference between the ABN holder and the business name holder (such as ‘Steve Smith’ and ‘Steven Smith’), we’ll ask you to confirm they’re the same person before we make the change.
To use ASIC Connect
You will need to sign up for an ASIC Connect account and have your business name linked if you haven’t already. Find out how to do this:
Steps to add an ABN for names owned by individuals and partnerships
Log in to your account
Log in to ASIC Connect using your username and password.
Start transaction
- Select the ‘Lodgements and notifications’ tab.
- Select the business name you want to change.
- Select ‘Add ABN’ then select the ‘Go’ button.
Make the changes
Enter the business name holder’s ABN.
Review and confirm
- Check the details displayed are correct.
- Then select the ‘Submit’ button to complete your request.
Steps to add an ABN for names owned by companies, trusts, joint ventures, or associations
Download and fill in the form
If you’re applying to add an ABN to a company, trust, joint venture, or association you will need to fill in a form.
Send us the form
You can email the form to BN.lodgements@asic.gov.au
Or you can mail it to:
Australian Securities and Investments Commission
PO Box 4000
GIPPSLAND MAIL CENTRE VIC 3841