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Comprehensive guide to estate planning
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A Director Identification number (Director ID) is a unique identifier that is given to a director who has verified their identity. The Director ID will be attached to a director permanently, even if they cease to be a director, change their name, or move interstate or overseas. The Government expects the Director ID regime will help prevent illegal phoenixing by ensuring directors can be traced across companies, while also preventing the use of false or fictitious identities. You can apply for your Director ID online, over the phone or paper form.
Here is a step by step guide on how you can apply.
Before starting if you do not currently have a myGov ID you will need to set this up at https://www.mygovid.gov.au/set-up. To obtain your Director ID, you are required to have a standard identity strength when applying for your myGov ID. For a standard identity strength, you need to enter your personal details and verify at least two of the following Australian identity documents (your name must match on both):
We recommend that you use a smartphone and a computer/laptop to apply for your myGov ID and Director ID.
You will also be required to answer two questions from the list below (answers must match the ATO's current records) as part of the application. If you are unaware of these details, you need to refer to your last tax return or contact your Ulton Advisor for assistance.
Please note you may select which two you would like to answer:
This option is only available if you have a TFN.
To establish your identity, the ATO will ask you questions based on your tax or superannuation information, including information from third parties and other government departments.
This may include details from ATO letters or notices that have been issued to you, details from a tax return.
The ATO may also ask you to confirm details of identity documents, such as your driver's licence, Medicare card or passport, and to consent to the ATO checking those documents with the issuing authority.
When you have the required documentation ready, phone the following numbers:
Note: You will receive a copy of your Director ID to your myGov account if you have it linked. Alternatively, you will receive it via post, 7-10 days after the application is processed. Please note delays with Australia Post may impact this timeframe.
Directors will need to fill in this Application for a Director Identification Number form.
Please note all questions must be answered and full legal names provided (eg no preferred names, shortened versions or middles name not included where applicable).
For applications within Australia you will need to provide certified copies of one primary and two secondary identity documents:
Primary documents
Secondary documents
For applications outside Australia you will need to provide certified translated copies (if not in English) of one primary and one secondary identity document:
Primary documents
Secondary documents
If you have changed your name (outside Australia applications only), you must provide another document showing the change, such as a:
Keep a copy of your application for your own records.
Post the original application form with your certified/translated documents to :
Australian Business Registry Services
Locked Bag 6000
ALBURY NSW 2640
Australia
Note: Your paper application for your Director ID will take 20 days to process. Once processed it will take between 7 - 10 days to be either emailed or posted to you. Please note delays with Australia Post may impact this timeframe.
Under the law, directors who fail to apply for a Director ID within the stipulated time frame can face criminal or civil penalties of 5,000 penalty units, which currently stands at $1.11 million. Directors of a CATSI organisation can face penalties of up to $200,000.
Any directors appointed between 1 November 2021 and 4 April 2022 (if not a current director in another company) will have just 28 days after their appointment to apply. From 5 April 2022 new directors will be required to apply for their Director ID before they can be appointed.
If you have any questions, please contact a trusted Ulton advisor on (07) 4154 0400.
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Our educational estate planning resource to ensure you're on the right track
