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Director Identification Numbers

What is a director identification number

A director ID number is a unique 15-digit identifier issued to each person that consents to being a director of a company.  Directors must apply for their director ID themselves because they need to verify their identity. No one can apply on their behalf.

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Why you need a director ID

Shareholders, employees, creditors, consumers, external administrators and regulators are entitled to know the names and certain details of the directors of a company. All directors are required by law to verify their identity before receiving a director ID. This is important because it will help to:

  • prevent the use of false or fraudulent director identities;

  • make it easier for external administrators and regulators to trace directors’ relationships with companies over time; and

  • identify and eliminate director involvement in unlawful activity, such as illegal phoenix activity.

 

When you need to apply

You can apply for a director ID from November 2021. When you must apply depends on when you were appointed as a director:

  • Existing directors have until 30 November 2022 to apply.

  • Directors appointed between 1 November 2021 and 4 April 2022 must apply within 28 days of their appointment.

  • From 5 April 2022, intending directors must apply before being appointed.

 

Apply for your director ID

Step 1 – Set up a MyGov ID

You will need a myGovID with a standard or strong identity strength to apply for your director ID online. If you live outside Australia and are unable to obtain a myGovID, you will need to apply with a paper form and provide certified copies of your identity documents. To set up a myGovID you will need to download the myGovID app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

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Step 2 – Gather your documents

You will need to have some information the ATO knows about you when you apply for your director ID: your tax file number; your residential address as held by the ATO; and information from two documents to verify your identity.

 

Step 3 – Complete your application

Once you have completed step 1 and 2, you can apply for a director ID by using the following link. Apply now for your Director Identification Number Once you have been issued a director ID you will need to provide the number to the company’s secretary or ASIC agent.

 

If you have any questions about the three steps outlined above, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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