What is an IRD number and do I need one as a NZ sole trader?

An IRD number is a unique 8 or 9-digit number that identifies you to Inland Revenue. Everyone who earns income in New Zealand needs an IRD number — it is your personal tax reference number. As a sole trader, you will use your personal IRD number for all your business income and tax returns. You do not need a separate IRD number for your business (unlike a company, which gets its own IRD number). You will need your IRD number to: - File your IR3 tax return - Register for GST - Open a business bank account - Issue invoices (some clients require it) - Register with ACC If you don't have an IRD number yet, you can apply online through myIR at ird.govt.nz. You will need your passport or birth certificate and proof of your residential address. Processing takes around 8-10 working days.

• 8 or 9-digit unique tax identifier from Inland Revenue
• Required by all NZ income earners
• Sole traders use personal IRD number for business income
• Needed for GST registration, bank accounts, IR filings
• Apply online through myIR with ID documents