Who needs a IRD number in New Zealand, how to register with Inland Revenue (IRD), what the number looks like, how to find or check one, and where it goes on your invoices.
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Updated for 2026
Last reviewed September 2026
What the IRD number is
The IRD number is the number Inland Revenue (IRD) assigns to a taxpayer in New Zealand. It follows you across every tax you deal with: GST, income tax and withholding. Businesses that pay you will ask for it before they release payment, because they report their suppliers to Inland Revenue (IRD) by this number.
IRD number: 8 or 9 digits (012-345-678).
Who needs one
Everyone has an IRD number; companies and partnerships get their own; GST registration follows once turnover hits the threshold.
How to register, step by step
Apply for an IRD number online at ird.govt.nz with your passport or NZ ID and proof of address.
Companies: apply for the IRD number as part of Companies Office registration.
Register for GST in myIR once turnover exceeds $60,000 in 12 months.
How to find or check a IRD number
Your own number is on the registration certificate and on every letter or notice from Inland Revenue (IRD). Most authorities now offer an online lookup to confirm a supplier's number and registered name before you pay them; use it for any new supplier.
Where it goes on your paperwork
In the invoice header next to your business name, and in the client block when the client is a registered business. Quotations and purchase orders carry it too, so the client's accounts team can match documents. The New Zealand invoice generator has a IRD number field in both blocks.
Questions people ask
Does it cost anything to get a IRD number?
Registration with Inland Revenue (IRD) is normally free. Agents charge for filling in the same form; pay one only if you want the time saved.
Can I invoice without a IRD number?
You can write the document, but many clients will not pay an invoice that has no IRD number, and you cannot charge GST without being registered. Register first; it is usually quick.
Is the IRD number the same as GST registration?
Not necessarily. The IRD number identifies you as a taxpayer; GST registration is a separate status you take on when turnover passes the threshold or you opt in. Some countries use one number for both, others issue a separate GST number.
How long does registration take?
Online registrations are often instant or take a few days; applications that need a visit or document checks take longer. Start before you need to send your first invoice.
Written from published tax-authority guidance and reviewed on 2026-09-03. Everything here is indicative rather than a ruling on your circumstances, and rules change. Confirm anything you rely on with Inland Revenue (IRD) before acting on it, and tell us if you find something out of date so we can correct it.
This guide explains the rules in general terms and is not tax advice for your circumstances. Confirm your position with a qualified adviser or with Inland Revenue (IRD).
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