Trading name

[Ranga]

I have an ABN as a sole trader. Is it possible to trade under a business name without registering that name as your business name? I hope this makes sense. :confused:

Edit: Never mind, found it http://www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au/need-to-register.htm

[brougham]

Nope. Unless you are trading as your own name you must register the business name (if not already taken)

[Ranga]

So, if I use a particular trading name on business cards, website etc, I can't use my sole-trader ABN for invoicing? If not, what are the major implications for having a registered business vs a sole-trader ABN.

I might need to chat to my accountant next week.

[brougham]

They aren't linked. The ABN is related to your entity (sole trader, partnership, etc) and the business name is the trading name of the entity.

If you (the entity) want to trade under a different name than the entity name (as a sole trader that is your full name) then you must register the trading business name in your state.

Otherwise you cannot trade under that name. The ABN is the same for the business name and the entity, as it is officially called 'A B Bloke trading as Awesome Business Name'