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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about tax returns, bookkeeping, BAS, business services, and accounting.

Individual Tax

Refunds, deductions and tax returns.

Business Services

GST, BAS and business tax.

Accounting

Bookkeeping and reporting.

General Questions

Appointments, fees and support.

Individual Tax FAQs

  • Can I have my accounting fee taken out of my tax refund?

    Yes. If you are expecting a tax refund, we may be able to arrange for our fee to be deducted directly from your refund. This is subject to eligibility, and for an additional fee of $35.

  • Can you access my income information from the ATO?

    Yes. As your registered tax agent, we can usually access information that has been reported to the ATO, such as salary and wages, bank interest, dividends, government payments and private health insurance details once they become available. However, not all information is reported to the ATO, so it’s important to tell us about all your income, deductions, investments and any changes to your circumstances to ensure your tax return is complete and accurate.

  • How much does a tax return cost?

    Our fees vary depending on the complexity of your tax return. Simple individual returns generally cost less than returns involving investment properties, businesses, cryptocurrency, or multiple income sources. Contact us for a personalised quote.

  • How long does it take to receive my refund?

    Most electronically lodged tax returns are processed by the ATO within approximately 2 weeks. However, processing times can vary and may take longer depending on your circumstances.

  • Do I need receipts for my deductions?

    You should keep records of any work-related expenses, donations, and other deductions you intend to claim. When attending your appointment simply bring a summary of your work-related expenses and any information we may need to review. Please retain your receipts for your own records, as the ATO may request them in the future.

  • Can I claim working from home expenses?

    If you work from home, you may be eligible to claim home office expenses using either the ATO’s fixed rate or actual cost method, depending on your circumstances. Most taxpayers use the fixed rate method, as it has simpler substantiation requirements and generally only requires a record of the hours worked from home, along with evidence of the expenses included in the rate. We can advise which method is most suitable for your situation.

  • I've lost my receipts. Can I still claim deductions?

    Possibly. In some cases, alternative evidence may be accepted. We’ll discuss your circumstances and advise what documentation may be sufficient.

  • Can you amend a previous tax return?

    Yes. If an error has been made or information was missed, we can assist with lodging an amendment.

  • Why is my refund smaller than last year, or why do I have tax to pay?

    This is one of the most common questions we receive. Even if you’re working the same job and claiming similar deductions, your tax outcome can vary each year. Changes to tax withheld, government offsets, Medicare Levy, private health insurance, HECS/HELP repayments, investment income, or tax law can all affect your refund. If you’d like us to explain the difference, were always happy to help.

Business Services FAQs

  • Do I need an ABN?

    If you're operating a business or working as a sole trader, you will generally need an Australian Business Number (ABN).

  • Do I need to register for GST?

    Businesses with annual turnover of $75,000 or more are generally required to register for GST.

  • What is a BAS?

    A Business Activity Statement (BAS) is used to report GST and other tax obligations to the ATO.

  • How often do I need to lodge my BAS?

    Most small businesses lodge their BAS quarterly, although some businesses may be required to lodge monthly. Businesses that are not required to register for GST or voluntarily register with a GST turnover below the registration threshold, may be eligible to lodge annually. We can advise you on the lodgement frequency that applies to your business.

  • What records should I keep for my business?

    Businesses should retain invoices, receipts, bank statements, payroll records, and other financial documents.

  • What business structure should I choose?

    Common structures include sole trader, partnership, company, and trust. Choosing the right structure can have significant tax and asset protection implications. We can explain the advantages and disadvantages of each option and recommend the structure best suited to your circumstances.

  • Can you help me start a business?

    Yes. We can assist with business registrations, ABNs, GST registration, and accounting setup.

  • What happens if I miss a BAS deadline?

    The ATO may apply penalties or interest charges. Contact us as soon as possible if you're behind on your lodgements.

Accounting FAQs

  • Do you offer bookkeeping services?

    Yes. We provide bookkeeping assistance to help keep your financial records organised and up to date.

  • Can you help with payroll?

    Yes. We can assist with payroll processing, superannuation obligations, and record keeping.

  • Do you work with accounting software?

    Yes. We work with a range of accounting software including Xero, MYOB and QuickBooks Online.

  • Can you assist with superannuation compliance?

    Yes. We can assist employers with superannuation obligations, Super Guarantee compliance, and reporting requirements.

  • Can you help if my bookkeeping is behind?

    Absolutely. We regularly assist clients in bringing their records up to date.

General FAQs

  • What should I bring to my appointment?

    Please bring valid identification, income statements, investment information, summary of deductions, and any relevant financial documents. If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact our friendly staff before your appointment.

  • Do you offer phone or video appointments?

    Yes. We offer appointments in-person and over the phone. Video appointments are also available upon request, subject to availability.

  • Can I complete everything online?

    Yes. Many clients securely send documents via our Client Portal and sign forms electronically.

  • How do I book an appointment?

    You can contact our office by phone, email, or through our website contact form

  • Can you deal with the ATO on my behalf?

    Yes. With the appropriate authority, we can communicate with the ATO regarding many tax matters.

  • What payment methods do you accept?

    We accept a variety of payment methods including bank transfer, credit/debit card, and electronic payment options.

  • I've received a letter from the ATO. What should I do?

    Contact us as soon as possible and provide a copy of the correspondence so we can assist.