SBE tip: tell the ATO within 28 days when your business details change

When did you last check the contact details the ATO holds for your business? If you have moved premises, changed your email or switched phone numbers, the ATO may be writing to someone who is no longer there.

The rule

The ATO says you must tell the Australian Business Register (ABR) Registrar within 28 days of a change to your registered business details. That includes addresses and associates.

Why it matters

Reminders, notices and requests for information go to the details on file. If they go astray, you can miss a deadline without knowing it, and a small problem can turn into penalties and interest. It is a cheap fix for an expensive risk.

How to update

Online services for business. Go to Profile, then Business addresses, pick the address to change, complete the mandatory fields, confirm the declaration and save.
Business details. Under Profile, individuals can update their address, phone number and email.
Other options. You can use the ABR online, phone the ATO if you are an authorised contact, or lodge the Change of registration details form.

Check who has access

Your authorised contacts need to be set up properly. Changes to who can deal with the ATO online are made through Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM), so remove anyone who has left.

What to do this week

Log in and check your addresses, phone and email.
Ask your accountant or bookkeeper to confirm they receive ATO correspondence.
If your business is a company, also check the ASIC registered office address, which is a separate record.

This is general information only, so check how it applies to your situation.

This article is general information only, current at the date of publishing. It is not financial, tax or legal advice and does not take your personal circumstances into account. Talk to a registered tax agent before acting on anything you read here.