An Australian Business Number (ABN) for SMS marketing

Everything you need to know about Australian Business Numbers (ABN), the tax ID required for SMS marketing registration with Constant Contact

ABN numbers are relevant to Constant Contact customers in Australia using the SMS add-on for SMS marketing. To register for SMS, you’ll need to enter your ABN number on your SMS marketing application.

Important: This information applies only to Australian customers. If you’re located in the US, please read this article instead to learn about Employer Identification Numbers (EIN).

An ABN is a unique 11-digit number that identifies your business to the government, other businesses, and the public. It doesn't replace your tax file number. Not everyone is entitled to an ABN, and you may be subject to an ABN entitlement review at any time.

It is free to register for an ABN through the Australian Government’s Australian Business Register (ABR).

• I have an ABN, but I'm not sure what it is
• Do I need an ABN to register for SMS marketing?
• How do I apply for an ABN?
• What do I do after I receive an ABN from the Australian Business Register?

I have an ABN, but I'm not sure what it is

You can find your ABN by checking previous government correspondence, such as tax invoices, or by contacting the Australian Business Register (ABR).

You can also use the ABN lookup tool online at https://abr.business.gov.au/. ABN Lookup is the free public view of the Australian Business Register (ABR). It provides access to publicly available information supplied by businesses when they register for an Australian Business Number (ABN). 

Do I need an ABN to register for SMS marketing?

Yes, to register for the SMS marketing feature, you must have an ABN for your business. Without an ABN, you will not be able to submit the SMS registration form. 

You're entitled to an ABN if you're:

• carrying on or starting an enterprise in Australia
• making supplies connected with Australia's indirect tax zone
• a Corporations Act company.

To learn more, read about ABN entitlement.  

How do I apply for an ABN?

To apply for an ABN, visit the Australian Business Register website. To complete your ABN application, depending on your circumstances, you'll need your:

• Tax file number (TFN) 
• Tax or BAS agents registered agent number, if you use a registered agent
• Professional adviser number – if you're using the services of a professional adviser
• Previously held ABN
• Australian company number (ACN) or Australian registered body number (ARBN)
• Date your ABN is required. This should be the date that you expect to start any business activities – for example, buying stock. This date can't be more than six months in the future when you apply
• Entity legal name – appears on all official documents or legal papers
• Authorised contacts – this can be a registered tax or BAS agent if they are authorised to make changes or update information on behalf of the entity
• Associates' details – associate requirements are different for each entity type
• Business contact details, including an address, postal address, email address, and phone number.
• Business activity – usually the main source of income for your enterprise
• Business locations – provide businesses physical locations for all premises operated by your enterprise, unless there's a risk to safety of individuals as a result of the disclosure, for example, a women's refuge.

When applying for an ABN, if you give all the information needed, you'll find out about your ABN as soon as you’ve completed your online application. Your application will be processed more quickly if you can be identified using the information you provide, such as your tax file number.

If your application is successful, you’ll receive your 11-digit ABN immediately. You should print or save the confirmation of your ABN and ABN details. Your details will be added to the Australian Business Register (ABR), but you can request that certain details not be disclosed if you have privacy concerns. You can check ABN Lookup at any time to see if the ABN has been successfully processed.

If you receive a reference number, it may mean further review is required. If your application is unsuccessful, you'll receive a refusal number. You'll also receive a letter within 14 days confirming that your application has been refused, the reasons for the refusal, and the options available to you. This includes your review rights.

To learn more about ABN numbers and to get started applying for one, visit the Australian Business Register website. 

What do I do after I receive an ABN from the Australian Business Register?

Once you're approved for a valid ABN, you're able to register your account for SMS marketing. Please see our articles for instructions to:

• Add the SMS marketing add-on to your Constant Contact email plan
• Register your account for SMS marketing

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