How Do You Get a Director Identification Number (Director ID)?
A Director ID is a unique identifier every director of a company, including an SMSF's corporate trustee, is required to obtain before being appointed. It's applied for online through the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS) using your myID, and once issued, it stays with you for life regardless of how many companies you become a director of.
Who needs a Director ID?
Anyone who intends to become a director of a company, including an SMSF's corporate trustee, needs to obtain a Director ID before their appointment is registered with ASIC. Each person only ever needs one Director ID, no matter how many companies they're a director of.
How do you apply for a Director ID?
A Director ID is applied for online through the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS) website, using a myID login to verify your identity. You need to apply for it yourself, someone else can't apply on your behalf.
What happens if you don't have a Director ID before setting up your SMSF?
All proposed directors of an SMSF's corporate trustee need to have a Director ID before the company can be registered with ASIC. Not having one in place can delay the establishment of the fund.
Does a Director ID expire or need to be renewed?
No, a Director ID is issued once and stays with that person for life. It doesn't need to be renewed, and it stays the same even if you resign as a director and are later reappointed, or become a director of a different company.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a Director ID?
For most people applying online with a myID, a Director ID can be issued immediately once identity verification is complete
Do all SMSF trustees need a Director ID?
Only trustees who are directors of a corporate trustee need one. Individual trustees who aren't directors of a company don't require a Director ID.
Can someone apply for a Director ID on my behalf?
No, each person must apply for their own Director ID themselves, since it requires personal identity verification.
Thinking about establishing an SMSF?
This information is general and factual in nature. It is not financial product advice, legal advice or tax advice. Lifetime SMSF Pty Ltd is not licensed to provide financial product advice under the Corporations Act 2001. If you require personal advice, consult an appropriately licensed or authorised financial adviser.