With under a month to go until the 31 October due date for 2021-22 tax returns, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is reminding taxpayers to get on top of their tax returns by lodging or engaging with a registered tax agent.
ATO figures show that as at the end of September, over 8.3 million taxpayers have lodged their 2022 tax return. Last year, over 9.6 million had lodged their 2021 tax return by 31 October.
Assistant Commissioner Tim Loh says there are a number of lodgment options available.
"People with simple tax affairs can lodge through our free myTax service in under 30 minutes. Most of the information you need will already be there; just check it's correct, add any additional income, and claim deductions you're eligible for."
"Our website has a range of helpful calculators and tools to help you get it right. These are designed to guide you on a range of topics, from whether you need to lodge a tax return, to working out which deductions and expenses specific occupations and industries can claim."
"If you need more time to prepare your tax return, you can lodge with a registered tax agent. If you're using a registered tax agent for the first time, or using a different registered tax agent to last year, you need to engage with the registered tax agent by 31 October," Mr Loh said.
There are also free programs to support those who need help with their tax affairs:
- The ATO's Tax Help program is run by trained volunteers and is available to taxpayers earning $60,000 or less per year who have simple affairs.
- The National Tax Clinic program is a government-funded initiative to help individuals, small businesses, not-for-profit organisations and charities who may not be able to afford professional advice and representation with their tax affairs. It's run by Australian universities, and supported by the ATO.
This tax time as with every tax time, the ATO reminds taxpayers to be mindful of keeping their personal information protected, including never sharing their myGov login or myGovID details with anyone. Further information is available on our website - How to protect yourself
