Director ID Numbers (DIN)
What is a director ID? A director ID is a unique identification code that is given to a director once they have verified their identity with the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS). This code helps prevent the use of false/ fraudulent director identities
The main purpose of DINs is to improve director identification for the benefit of the company stakeholders as well as to prevent illegal activity such as fraud and phoenixing.
ATO WARNING: DIRECTOR ID NUMBERS
It was expected, by the 30 November which was the ATO deadline for company directors to apply for a Director Identification Number (DIN), would be done
However, the ATO announced that, as of 30 November, around 700,000 directors, or over a quarter of the 2.5 million directors around Australia, have not yet lodged their applications. Failing to apply for a DIN may incur civil penalties ranging from minor financial nudges to $1.1 million, as well as criminal penalties.
ATO has effectively provided two weeks’ leeway for company directors to apply, until 14 December. This extension does not provide complete immunity during that period. The ATO has stated that the Australian Business Registry Services, which is enforcing the DIN necessity, will take a reasonable approach to support those who wish to apply, though it may still apply penalties during this time. This applies to directors registered under the Corporations Act 2001. The deadline for directors registered under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 remains 30 November 2023.
Who needs to apply?
A director ID is required by eligible officers of:
- a company, registered Australian body, or registered foreign company under the Corporations Act 2001 (Corporations Act)
- an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporation registered under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (CATSI Act).
An eligible officer is a person who is appointed as either:
- a director
- an alternate director who is acting in that capacity.
Your unique director id is inclusive of all companies or corporations that you are tied to.
When do you need to apply?
When you must apply for your director ID depends on the date you first become a director.
| Date you became a director | Date you must apply by |
|---|---|
| On or before 31 October 2021 | By 30 November 2022 |
| Between 1 November 2021 and 4 April 2022 | Within 28 days of appointment |
| From 5 April 2022 | Before appointment |
Criteria to be a director
- Must be atleast 18 years old
- Must not be disqualified from managing corporations.
You can complete and apply for an extension if you have not applied for your DIN by your required date.
How to apply?
The fastest way to apply is by using the myGovID app to log in to ABRS online. Once you’ve logged in, you’ll need to verify your identity with information we have on record. The most used documents include:
- details of the bank account where your tax refunds or payments are made and received
- an ATO notice of assessment.
Check here for more detailed step by step https://www.abrs.gov.au/director-identification-number/apply-director-identification-number