How do I reactivate my ABN?

You can request a reactivation of a cancelled Australian business number (ABN) either:

by completing an online application via the ABR website www.abr.gov.au
through your tax agent (lodging an application via ELS), or
by lodging a paper ABN registration form.

Please refer to Who is entitled to an ABN? to check if the applicant is entitled to an ABN.

If you are an individual applying for an ABN, you should check your entitlement to register here.

Online application

Step 1

Review the policy on Reactivation of an ABN

Step 2

If entitled, select <Apply for an ABN>

Step 3

Enter information and <Submit>

Step 4

Notification sent

Note: The only way to reactivate your ABN online is to complete an ABN application.

Review the Reactivation of an ABN policy to determine whether you can request a reactivation of your ABN.
From the ABR homepage, select the <Apply for an ABN> option.
Complete and submit the application. For further information, refer to How do I apply for an ABN?

If you decide to use the ABR online application to reactivate your previous ABN, you will need to answer ‘Yes’ to the following question on the Application Detail screen.

‘Does the applicant currently have an Australian business number (ABN) or previously had an ABN?’

Ensure that on the Reason for Application screen, you check ‘The applicant has re-commenced business using the same legal structure’ option.

We will search for your previous ABN, changing the status to ‘active’ if we are satisfied that your ABN should be reactivated.

You will be notified by mail, of the reactivation of your ABN, within 28 days of our office receiving your request.

Lodging an ABN registration form

You can apply for reactivation of a cancelled ABN by lodging a paper ABN application form:

ABN registration for individuals (sole traders) (NAT 2938)
ABN registration for companies, partnerships, trusts and other organisations (NAT 2939)
ABN registration for superannuation entities (NAT 2944).

You can order a paper copy of this form:

through online ordering at www.ato.gov.au or
by phoning 1300 720 092.

You will be notified by mail, of the reactivation of your ABN, within 28 days of our office receiving your request.