What is a UEN Number in Singapore, and Why Is It Important?

Businesses operating in Singapore may have encountered the term UEN number several times, but foreign entrepreneurs who plan to incorporate a business in Singapore may be unfamiliar with it. Understanding the meaning of the UEN number is essential when registering for government grants and schemes, applying for business permits, reviewing regulatory compliance issues, or handling tax matters. This blog covers several aspects: what a UEN number is in Singapore, why it is crucial for businesses, how to get a UEN number, and how to check UEN number details online.

UEN Number Meaning and Purpose

What is a UEN Number?

The UEN number, or Unique Entity Number, is a unique identifier assigned to businesses and entities operating in Singapore. The Singapore government issues it to business entities after they register with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) or other relevant agencies. This number has 9 to 10 digits and is the equivalent of a National Registration Identity Card (NRIC) for Singapore citizens. The UEN will indicate the entity type – a limited liability partnership, sole proprietorship, or local company – and help organizations interact seamlessly with private and government agencies. The UEN number facilitates official transactions with government bodies. Each registered entity receives a distinct UEN, ensuring smooth interactions with various authorities.

Purpose of a UEN Number

The primary purpose of a UEN number Singapore is to ease interactions between businesses and the government or private agencies. Instead of using multiple reference numbers for different agencies, companies can use a single UEN number for all official dealings. It simplifies taxation, licensing, compliance, and e-invoicing, making operations more efficient and transparent. Additionally, the UEN helps in the following:

• Legal Identification: Serves as the entity’s official identification number.
• Tracking Transactions: Ensures accurate financial reporting and regulatory compliance.
• Enhances Security: Reduces fraud by providing an authenticated business identity.

Why is a UEN Number Important for Businesses?

While getting a UEN number may seem like a formality, it is a legal requirement for businesses in Singapore. Here’s a list of some reasons why it is crucial – 1. Government Transactions The UEN is a mandate when applying for business licenses, filing taxes with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS), registering for government grants and schemes, and ensuring other compliances. 2. Banking and Financial Services In Singapore, banks and financial institutions require a UEN number for all banking procedures regarding the entity, including opening corporate accounts, processing transactions, and applying for business loans. 3. Business Credibility Having a UEN number enhances business credibility, making building trust with customers, partners, and investors easier. 4. Regulatory Compliance As discussed above, a UEN simplifies compliance with regulations, including employment, corporate tax filing, and data security requirements. 5. Supplier and Vendor Contracts Many vendors and suppliers require businesses to provide a UEN for invoicing and record-keeping. 6. Employment The companies hiring employees need a UEN to register for Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions. 7. GST Registration Businesses required to collect Goods and Services Tax (GST) must register using their UEN.

How to Get a UEN Number in Singapore

A pertinent question arises: How do you get a UEN number for your business? It’s simple and depends on the type of entity.

Who Issues the UEN Number?

The UEN is issued by different government agencies depending on the type of business entity:

• ACRA (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority): Issues UENs for companies, partnerships, and sole proprietorships.
• Registry of Societies: Issues UENs for societies and non-profits.
• Ministry of Education (MOE): Issues UENs for schools, colleges, and other educational institutions.
• Other government agencies: Different agencies issue UENs for religious organizations, trade unions, healthcare institutions, and foreign companies.

Steps to Register for a UEN:

• Determine Your Business Structure: The first step is to decide whether you are registering as a company, sole proprietorship, partnership, or society.
• Visit the BizFile+ Portal to register your business: If registering under ACRA, use the BizFile+ portal (www.bizfile.gov.sg) to start registering.
• Submit Business Information: Provide the necessary details, such as business name, owner details, and registered address, to register your business.
• Pay Registration Fees: Registration fees vary based on entity type. For example, a private limited company registration costs around SGD 315 as a one-time fee, including business name registration.
• Receive Your UEN: Upon successful registration, you will receive an email with your business profile and UEN. If you want to get a special UEN number (SUN) with enhanced memorability or aesthetics (for example, having the same numbers in a row or the number “8”), you must pay supplementary fees up to $3,000. You can’t change your UEN or SUN until and unless you change your entity type or register a new business.

How to Check a UEN Number Online

Checking your UEN number is a simple process that can be done online on BizFile+ or the myTax portal. Here’s how: BizFile:

• Visit the BizFile+ website (www.bizfile.gov.sg).
• Navigate to the “search” or “company search” function.
• Enter the UEN number. If the UEN is valid, the system will display the company’s registration details and other relevant data.

myTax Portal:

• Go to the myTax portal.
• Search for GST-registered businesses.
• Enter the UEN number and search.
• If the UEN is valid, you will find the details of the GST-registered business.

Where to Find UEN Number for Your Business?

If you already have a registered business, you can find your UEN in:

• Business registration certificates
• Official government documents
• Corporate bank account records
• Tax invoices and GST filings
• Legal contracts and business agreements

Benefits of Having a UEN Number

A UEN number provides multiple benefits for businesses operating in Singapore:

1. Simplifies Government Interactions

A single identifier helps businesses manage compliance requirements efficiently, reducing any extra paperwork or administrative burden.

2. Facilitates Financial Transactions

A UEN number Singapore is essential for opening corporate bank accounts, applying for loans, processing payments, dealing with suppliers, and executing other financial transactions.

3. Enhances Business Credibility

Having a registered UEN improves your company’s brand image and reputation, thus easily attracting customers, investors, and business partners.

4. Enables Tax Compliance

Businesses must use their UEN when filing corporate taxes, applying for GST registration, and making CPF contributions. Failure to do so can result in fines and penalties.

5. Supports E-Invoicing

The UEN number is used in Singapore’s InvoiceNow Network, allowing seamless digital transactions with government agencies and suppliers. This facilitates faster payments and enhances financial transparency.

6. Required for Import and Export Activities

Businesses involved in import/export must use their UEN when applying for customs permits and engaging in international trade.

Partner with Lanturn for Incorporation Needs

Understanding what a UEN number in Singapore is and its importance is critical for every business. As a unique identifier, it simplifies financial transactions, makes entity-entity or entity-government dealings seamless, ensures legal compliance, and enhances business credibility. Your UEN number plays a vital role in Singapore. To check a UEN number, use the BizFile+ portal to find official registration details. If you need to register your business, look no further than Lanturn. As your one-stop solution for incorporation and corporate needs in Singapore, we offer a comprehensive suite of services, including:

• Corporate Secretary and Incorporation
• Accounting & Tax
• Immigration – Work Passes & PR
• Setting up a Business with a Dependent Pass
• Payroll
• KYC/AML
• Fund Formation & Administration Services

Schedule a call with us, and let us assist you in your incorporation.