How to Invoice as a Company
A company invoices under its registered company name, shows its ABN, and adds GST if registered. Keep entity details accurate and records well organised.
In this answer
- Set up company invoices with the right entity details
- Understand the ABN and company identifiers involved
- Know when GST applies to the company
- Find out where to confirm your obligations
5 min
Invoicing as a separate entity
A company is a separate legal entity from its owners, so its invoices are issued in the company's registered name — not an individual's. That distinction matters: the customer is contracting with the company, and payments should be made to the company. Use the exact registered name, not an informal shorthand, so there is no ambiguity about who supplied the goods or services.
Companies usually deal with other businesses, so a polished, consistent invoice is part of looking credible. Set a standard template that carries the company name, contact details and identifiers, and use it for every customer. Consistency reduces queries and helps the customer's accounts team process you smoothly.
ABN and company identifiers
Quote the company's ABN on every invoice, just as any business should. Companies also have an ACN (Australian Company Number), and depending on your circumstances you may choose to show it as well; many companies display both. The ABN is the one that matters for invoicing and withholding, while the ACN identifies the company in the corporate register.
Showing the correct identifiers signals that you are an established, properly registered business. If you are unsure which identifiers you are required or expected to display in your particular situation, confirm it with your accountant.
GST for the company
As with any business, a company adds GST only if it is registered for GST, in which case it issues tax invoices and accounts for the GST to the ATO. Larger companies are typically registered, but it is not automatic, and the registration test is set by the ATO. Do not assume — check whether the company is registered and confirm the threshold and timing with the ATO or your accountant. If it is registered, make sure every taxable sale carries GST and that the invoice shows it clearly.
Records and recovery
Keep the company's issued and received invoices organised — our free invoice tools help produce and store them. For retention detail, see how long to keep invoices.
If a customer leaves an invoice unpaid, your company can refer the debt for commercial recovery rather than carrying the loss.
This is general information only, not tax or legal advice. Company, ABN and GST obligations depend on your circumstances — confirm them with the ATO or your accountant.
Key takeaways
- Invoice in the company's exact registered name.
- Always quote the ABN; you may also show the ACN.
- Add GST only if the company is registered for GST.
- Use a consistent template across all customers.
- Confirm identifiers and GST obligations with the ATO or your accountant.
Frequently asked questions
Should a company show its ACN as well as its ABN?
The ABN is the key identifier for invoicing. Many companies display the ACN too. Confirm what you are required to show in your situation with your accountant.
Does a company always charge GST?
No — only if registered for GST. Registration is not automatic. Confirm the company's position with the ATO or your accountant.
Can a company use a debt recovery service for unpaid invoices?
Yes. If a customer will not pay, the company can refer the debt for commercial recovery instead of writing it off.
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