If you change your business structures, you may need to apply for a new ABN

If you change your business structures, you may need to apply for a new ABN

If you change your business structure, you may need to cancel your Australian business number (ABN) and apply for a new one. Examples of when you need to cancel your ABN and apply for a new ABN under the new structure include moving from either:

• individual/sole trader to partnership or trust
• individual/sole trader to company or trust
• partnership to company or trust.

Ensure your ABN details are updated on your tax invoices. This is essential as your ABN is used to:

• identify your business identity to others when ordering and invoicing
• claim GST credits.

Other businesses and entities must withhold payment at the top tax rate if the ABN quoted on the invoice is incorrect or the details do not match up.

Ensure you update your GST registration details whenever you get a new ABN.

See also:

• Applying for an ABN
• Registration obligations for businesses