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Do You Need an ABN for UpWork?

Last updated on January 28, 2023 @ 11:33 am

As a freelancer, you will need an Australian Business Number (ABN) to work with most businesses and organisations. This includes private companies, Commonwealth and state/territory government agencies, not-for-profits and educational institutions.

An ABN is free and easy to get – you can apply online through the Australian Business Register. Once you have your ABN, you can start invoicing your clients.

Remember to include your ABN on all invoices, so your clients can check that you are a legitimate business.

PRO TIP: If you are thinking of using Upwork to find work, be warned that you will need an ABN (Australian Business Number). This is because Upwork is an online marketplace where businesses and independent contractors can connect.

If you don’t have an ABN, you may still be able to find work on Upwork, but you will be classified as a ‘non-entity’ and will be subject to different rules and conditions. This means that you will not be able to invoice your clients directly, and will have to go through Upwork’s invoicing system instead. You will also be charged a higher fee by Upwork.

There are a few exceptions to the rule – you do not need an ABN to work with:

    • Sole traders

You only need an ABN if you are operating as a company. If you are a sole trader, you can use your own name or trading name as your business name.

    • Partnerships

As with sole traders, you only need an ABN if you are operating as a company. If you are in partnership with others, you can use your own name or trading name as your business name.

    • Family trusts

You only need an ABN if the trust is carrying on a business.

    • Superannuation funds

You only need an ABN if the fund is carrying on a business – for example, if it operates a commercial rental property.

    • Government agencies

You generally don’t need an ABN to work with other government agencies.

Do I need an ABN to work through UpWork? In most cases, yes. You will need to provide your tax file number and confirm that you have an Australian Business Number (ABN).

However, there are some exceptions. If you’re registered for GST, then you must have an ABN. If you’re not registered for GST, then you may not need an ABN.

Conclusion

So in conclusion, do you really need an ABN for UpWork? In most cases yes, but there are some exceptions where you may not need one.

Dale Leydon

Dale Leydon

Sysadmin turned Javascript developer. Owner of 20+ apps graveyard, and a couple of successful ones.