ABN Lookup Tool
Look up an Australian Business Number to verify registration status, GST registration, entity name, and business type using the ABR.
ABN Lookup Tool
Look up an Australian Business Number to verify registration status, GST registration, entity name, and business type using the ABR.
About This Tool
Look up an Australian Business Number to verify registration status, GST registration, entity name, and business type using the ABR.
An Australian Business Number (ABN) is a unique 11-digit identifier issued by the Australian Business Register (ABR) to businesses operating in Australia. The ABN system was introduced alongside GST in 2000 to simplify business dealings with government and other businesses. Every business entity — whether a sole trader, partnership, company, or trust — needs an ABN to operate legally and issue tax invoices.
Why This Matters for Australian Businesses
Verifying a supplier's or contractor's ABN before making payment is not just good practice — it has direct tax consequences. If a supplier does not quote a valid ABN on their invoice, you are required to withhold 47% of the payment amount and remit it to the ATO under the no-ABN withholding rules. Checking ABN details also confirms whether the entity is registered for GST, which determines whether you can claim input tax credits on their invoices.
How to Use This Tool
- Enter the 11-digit ABN you want to verify
- The tool queries the public Australian Business Register database
- Review the results: entity name, ABN status (active or cancelled), entity type, GST registration status, and location
Key Rules & Thresholds
- ABNs are exactly 11 digits and include a built-in check digit — invalid numbers are rejected before lookup
- The no-ABN withholding rate is 47% of the total payment amount
- GST registration status shown in ABN lookup tells you whether the entity charges GST
- Cancelled ABNs may indicate a business has ceased trading or been deregistered by the ATO
- ABN lookup is free and publicly available through the Australian Business Register
- Businesses can hold an ABN without being registered for GST — they are separate registrations
How Results Are Calculated
This calculator uses the latest published rates and thresholds for the 2025–26 financial year. Results are estimates only — always verify with the relevant authority before making financial decisions.