Director IDs

Rudd Mantell Accountants • November 15, 2021

Director IDs

From 1 November 2021

The Australian Government has introduced a new identification process for Company Directors. As of 1 November 2021, Directors are required by law to verify their identity with the Australian Business Registry Service (ABRS) and obtain a Director ID. This is a unique 15 digit identifier that will remain with a Director for life, similar to a Tax File Number.


When do Directors need to obtain their ID?


The Australian Business Registry Services has outlined key dates in which a Director must apply for their ID number. Penalties will apply if a director does not meet their obligations.


How do I apply for my Director ID?
 
A Director must verify their own identity when applying - we can assist you if required but we are unable to lodge the application.
 
There are three ways in which a Director can obtain their ID.


1.Online

  • Step 1 - Set up a MyGovID account (note this is separate from a MyGov account)
  • Step 2 - Apply for a Director ID via ABRS

2. Apply with a paper form including certified documents

3. By phone


What documents do I need to apply for my Director ID?


The method in which you apply for your Director ID will dictate the level of documentation required. The documents required can be found here. We recommend you have these on hand prior to starting the process:


  • your Tax File Number (TFN)
  • your residential address as held by the ATO


and information from two documents to verify your identity which may include:


  • bank account details
  • an ATO notice of assessment
  • super account details
  • a dividend statement
  • a Centrelink payment summary
  • PAYG payment summary.


Via MyGovID


The quickest way to obtain your ID number is through MyGovID. You will need to have some information the ATO knows about you when you set up your MyGovID, to make the process quicker it is best to have these on hand. 


Via paper


Applications can be processed via paper and will take 28 days to process. Certified documents meeting the 100 point ID check will be required. If you would prefer to apply via paper please contact us and we can assist you.
 
Via Phone


You can call the ABRS on
13 62 50
 
If you would like further information, please contact us.

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