Question 1

How long does it take to get my tax refund?

Accepted Answer

The processing time for tax refunds in Australia can vary. Generally, if you lodge your tax return electronically, you can expect to receive your refund within 12 business days. However, if you lodge a paper tax return, it may take up to 50 business days to receive your refund. It's important to note that these timeframes are estimates and can be subject to change depending on the complexity of your return and other factors.

Question 2

When is the deadline for lodging my tax return?

Accepted Answer

The deadline for lodging your tax return in Australia is usually 31 October. However, if you are using a registered tax agent, you may be eligible for an extended deadline.

Question 3

What do I do if I missed the tax return deadline?

Accepted Answer

If you missed the tax return deadline in Australia, you should still lodge your tax return as soon as possible. The deadline for lodging individual tax returns is usually October 31st. However, if you miss this deadline, you can still lodge your return late. Keep in mind that lodging your tax return late may result in penalties and interest charges. It is advisable to contact the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to discuss your situation and seek guidance on how to proceed.

Question 4

Can I lodge past years' tax returns?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can lodge past years' tax returns in Australia. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows taxpayers to lodge tax returns for the previous two financial years. For example, if the current financial year is 2021-2022, you can lodge tax returns for the financial years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021. It is important to note that lodging late tax returns may attract penalties and interest charges if you owe any tax.

Question 5

Can I amend a tax return after I've lodged it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can amend a tax return after you have lodged it. You can do this by lodging a request for amendment using the ATO's online services or by completing and mailing a paper form. It is important to note that you can only amend a tax return within a certain timeframe, usually within two years from the date of assessment.

Question 6

What is the tax-free threshold and how does it impact my return?

Accepted Answer

The tax-free threshold in Australia is the amount of income you can earn before you are required to pay income tax. For the 2021-2022 financial year, the tax-free threshold is $18,200. If your income is below this threshold, you will not have to pay any income tax. However, if your income exceeds this threshold, you will be required to pay tax on the amount that exceeds $18,200. The tax-free threshold impacts your return by reducing the amount of tax you owe or increasing your refund if you have paid more tax than necessary throughout the year.

Question 7

How are capital gains reported in my tax return?

Accepted Answer

Capital gains are reported in your tax return using the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) schedule. You need to complete the CGT schedule if you have disposed of any assets during the financial year and made a capital gain. The schedule requires you to provide details of the asset sold, the date of acquisition and disposal, the sale proceeds, and the cost base of the asset. The net capital gain is then included in your assessable income and taxed at your marginal tax rate. It is important to keep accurate records of your capital gains and consult with a tax professional if you are unsure about any aspect of reporting capital gains in your tax return.

Question 8

Can I lodge my tax return through a tax agent, and how do I choose one?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can lodge your tax return through a tax agent in Australia. To choose a tax agent, you can consider the following factors:
1. Registered Tax Agent: Ensure that the tax agent you choose is registered with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB). You can check their registration status on the TPB website.
2. Qualifications and Experience: Look for a tax agent who has relevant qualifications and experience in handling tax matters. They should be knowledgeable about Australian tax laws and regulations.
3. Reputation and Reviews: Consider the reputation and reviews of the tax agent. You can check online reviews or ask for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues.
4. Fees: Inquire about the fees charged by the tax agent. It's important to understand their fee structure and any additional charges for specific services.
5. Services Offered: Determine if the tax agent offers the specific services you require. Some tax agents specialise in certain areas, such as small businesses or investment properties.
6. Accessibility and Communication: Consider the accessibility and communication channels offered by the tax agent. It's important to have clear communication and be able to reach them easily if you have any questions or concerns.
Remember to provide all necessary documents and information to your chosen tax agent to ensure accurate and timely lodgment of your tax return.

Question 9

How do franking credits affect my tax return?

Accepted Answer

Franking credits can affect your tax return in the following ways:
1. Offset against tax payable: If you receive franking credits from Australian companies in which you own shares, these credits can be used to offset the tax payable on your other income. For example, if you have a tax liability of $1,000 and receive $800 in franking credits, your tax payable will be reduced to $200.
2. Refund of excess franking credits: If the franking credits you receive exceed your tax liability, you may be eligible for a refund of the excess credits. This can occur if you are in a lower tax bracket or have tax deductions that reduce your taxable income.
3. Carry forward of unused franking credits: If you have excess franking credits that cannot be refunded, you can carry them forward to offset against future tax liabilities. These credits can be carried forward indefinitely until they are fully utilised.
It's important to note that franking credits can only be used to reduce or offset tax payable and cannot generate a tax refund on their own. Additionally, the rules around franking credits can be complex, so it's advisable to consult a tax professional or refer to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) guidelines for specific situations.

Question 10

How do franking credits affect my tax return?

Accepted Answer

Franking credits can affect your tax return in the following ways:
1. Offset against tax payable: If you receive franking credits from Australian companies in which you own shares, these credits can be used to offset the tax payable on your other income. For example, if you have a tax liability of $1,000 and receive $800 in franking credits, your tax payable will be reduced to $200.
2. Refund of excess franking credits: If the franking credits you receive exceed your tax liability, you may be eligible for a refund of the excess credits. This can occur if you are in a lower tax bracket or have tax deductions that reduce your taxable income.
3. Carry forward of unused franking credits: If you have excess franking credits that cannot be refunded, you can carry them forward to offset against future tax liabilities. These credits can be carried forward indefinitely until they are fully utilised.
It's important to note that franking credits can only be used to reduce or offset tax payable and cannot generate a tax refund on their own. Additionally, the rules around franking credits can be complex, so it's advisable to consult a tax professional or refer to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) guidelines for specific situations.

Question 11

How do I claim the Medicare Levy Exemption in my return?

Accepted Answer

To claim the Medicare Levy Exemption in your tax return, you need to follow these steps:
1. Determine if you are eligible for the exemption. You may be eligible if your income is below a certain threshold or if you meet specific exemption criteria, such as being a foreign resident or having a medical condition.
2. Complete your tax return using the appropriate tax form or online platform. Ensure that you accurately report your income and deductions.
3. Declare your eligibility for the Medicare Levy Exemption by selecting the relevant option on your tax return form or online platform. This option is usually found in the section related to Medicare Levy and Medicare Levy Surcharge.
4. Provide any necessary supporting documentation to substantiate your exemption claim. This may include medical certificates or other evidence, depending on the exemption criteria you meet.
5. Review your tax return for accuracy and completeness before submitting it to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
It's important to note that if you are eligible for the Medicare Levy Exemption, you may still need to pay the Medicare Levy Surcharge if your income exceeds certain thresholds and you do not have private hospital cover.

Question 12

How do I claim work-related deductions in my tax return?

Accepted Answer

To claim work-related deductions in your tax return as an Australian taxpayer, you need to follow these steps:
1. Keep records: Maintain accurate records of all work-related expenses, including receipts, invoices, and other relevant documents.
2. Determine eligibility: Ensure that the expenses you want to claim are directly related to your work and not reimbursed by your employer.
3. Identify deductible expenses: Common work-related deductions include vehicle and travel expenses, home office expenses, self-education expenses, union fees, and professional subscriptions. Refer to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website or consult a tax professional for a comprehensive list of eligible deductions.
4. Lodge your tax return: Include your work-related deductions in the appropriate sections of your tax return form. You can lodge your tax return online using myTax, through a registered tax agent, or by paper if eligible.
5. Provide accurate information: Make sure to accurately report your deductions, providing clear descriptions and supporting evidence for each expense claimed.
6. Keep records for five years: Retain your records for at least five years after lodging your tax return in case the ATO requests further information or conducts an audit.
Remember, it's essential to consult with a tax professional or refer to the ATO website for specific guidance tailored to your circumstances.

Question 13

How do I declare income from investments, such as shares or rental property?

Accepted Answer

To declare income from investments such as shares or rental property in Australia, you need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain the necessary documents: Gather all relevant documents related to your investments, including dividend statements, rental income statements, and any other income-related documents.
2. Complete your tax return: Use the information from your investment documents to complete the relevant sections of your tax return. In Australia, individuals typically use the Individual tax return (ITR) form or lodge their tax return online using myTax.
3. Declare share income: If you received dividends from shares, you need to declare this income in the "Interest, dividends, and other income" section of your tax return. Provide the details of the shares and the amount of dividends received.
4. Declare rental income: If you earned rental income from a property, you must declare it in the "Rental properties" section of your tax return. Include details such as the address of the property, rental income received, and any deductible expenses.
5. Claim deductions: If you incurred expenses related to your investments, such as interest on loans, property management fees, or brokerage fees, you may be eligible to claim deductions. Ensure you have the necessary documentation to support your claims.
6. Lodge your tax return: Once you have completed all the relevant sections, review your tax return for accuracy and completeness. Lodge your tax return by the due date, which is usually October 31st, unless you have a tax agent or extension.
Remember to keep records of your investment income and expenses for at least five years in case of an audit by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). If you are unsure about any aspect of declaring investment income, consider seeking advice from a registered tax agent or contacting the ATO directly.

Question 14

How do I lodge my tax return online?

Accepted Answer

To lodge your tax return online in Australia, you can follow these steps:
1. Create a myGov account: Visit the myGov website (www.my.gov.au) and create an account if you don\'t already have one. You will need your tax file number (TFN) to register.
2. Link your myGov account to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO): Once you have a myGov account, you need to link it to the ATO. To do this, log in to your myGov account, go to the "Services" section, and select the "Australian Taxation Office" option. Follow the prompts to link your account.
3. Access the ATO online services: After linking your myGov account to the ATO, you can access the ATO online services. Log in to your myGov account, go to the "Services" section, and select the "Australian Taxation Office" option.
4. Lodge your tax return: Within the ATO online services, you will find the option to lodge your tax return. Follow the prompts and provide the necessary information, including your income, deductions, and any other relevant details. You can also use pre-filled information from your employer, bank, and government agencies to make the process easier.
5. Review and submit your tax return: Once you have entered all the required information, review your tax return to ensure accuracy. Make any necessary corrections or additions. Once you are satisfied, submit your tax return electronically to the ATO.
6. Keep a record: After lodging your tax return, make sure to keep a copy of your lodgment confirmation or receipt for your records.
Note: If you are not comfortable lodging your tax return online, you can also seek assistance from a registered tax agent or use tax return software approved by the ATO.

Question 15

How do I report foreign income on my tax return?

Accepted Answer

To report foreign income on your tax return as an Australian taxpayer, you need to follow these steps:
1. Determine the type of foreign income: Identify the specific type of foreign income you received, such as employment income, rental income, dividends, or capital gains.
2. Convert the foreign income to Australian dollars: Use the applicable exchange rate for the income year to convert the foreign income into Australian dollars.
3. Declare the foreign income: Report the foreign income in the appropriate sections of your tax return. For example, employment income should be reported in the "Salary and wages" section, rental income in the "Rental property" section, and so on.
4. Claim any foreign tax credits or deductions: If you paid foreign tax on the income, you may be eligible to claim a foreign tax credit or deduction to avoid double taxation. Ensure you have the necessary documentation to support your claim.
5. Complete the Foreign Income Schedule (if required): If your total foreign income exceeds AUD $1,000, you may need to complete the Foreign Income Schedule (Part C) and attach it to your tax return.
6. Keep records: Retain all relevant documents, such as income statements, bank statements, and receipts, to substantiate your foreign income and any related deductions or credits claimed.
Remember to consult with a tax professional or refer to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website for specific guidance tailored to your situation.

Question 16

What are tax offsets or rebates, and how do I claim them?

Accepted Answer

Tax offsets, also known as rebates, are deductions that reduce the amount of tax you owe. They directly reduce your tax liability, rather than reducing your taxable income. Here are some common tax offsets available to Australian taxpayers:
1. Low and Middle Income Tax Offset (LMITO): This offset provides tax relief to low and middle-income earners. The amount of offset depends on your income and is applied automatically when you lodge your tax return.
2. Senior Australians and Pensioners Tax Offset (SAPTO): This offset is available to eligible senior Australians and pensioners. The amount of offset depends on your income and other factors. You can claim it when you lodge your tax return.
3. Private Health Insurance Rebate: If you have private health insurance, you may be eligible for a rebate on your premiums. The rebate amount is income-tested and can be claimed through your insurer or as a tax offset when you lodge your tax return.
4. Offset for Medical Expenses: This offset is available for out-of-pocket medical expenses above a certain threshold. However, it is being phased out and only applies to expenses incurred prior to July 1, 2019.
To claim tax offsets, you need to include the relevant information in your tax return. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) provides instructions and guidance on how to claim each offset. Make sure to keep records and receipts to support your claims.

Question 17

What are the consequences if I lodge a false or misleading tax return?

Accepted Answer

Lodging a false or misleading tax return in Australia is considered tax evasion and is a serious offense. The consequences can include:
1. Penalties: If you are found guilty of lodging a false or misleading tax return, you may be liable for penalties. The penalty can be up to 75% of the tax shortfall, depending on the severity of the offense.
2. Legal action: The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) may take legal action against you, which can result in fines, imprisonment, or both. The severity of the punishment depends on the circumstances and the amount of tax involved.
3. Interest charges: If you understate your income or overstate your deductions, you may be liable for interest charges on the tax shortfall. The ATO charges interest on the outstanding tax debt from the due date until it is paid.
4. Reputation damage: Lodging a false or misleading tax return can damage your reputation and credibility. It may also affect your ability to obtain loans, credit, or future employment opportunities.
It is important to ensure that your tax return is accurate and complete. If you make a mistake, it is advisable to rectify it by lodging an amendment as soon as possible.

Question 18

What documents and information do I need to lodge my tax return?

Accepted Answer

To lodge your tax return in Australia, you will need the following documents and information:
1. Tax File Number (TFN): You will need your TFN, which is a unique identifier issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
2. Income statements: You should gather all your income statements, including payment summaries from your employer, Centrelink, or any other government payments received during the financial year.
3. Bank statements: Collect your bank statements or transaction records to provide evidence of any interest earned on your savings accounts.
4. Investment statements: If you have investments such as shares, managed funds, or rental properties, you will need the relevant investment statements showing income earned and expenses incurred.
5. Health insurance details: If you have private health insurance, you will need your annual statement from your health insurer.
6. Deduction records: Keep records of any work-related expenses, donations, or other deductions you plan to claim. This may include receipts, invoices, or logbooks.
7. Business records: If you are self-employed or operate a business, you will need to gather your business records, including income and expense statements, invoices, and receipts.
8. Superannuation details: Collect your superannuation statements, including any contributions made by you or your employer.
9. Previous year's tax return: It can be helpful to have your previous year's tax return on hand for reference.
10. Other relevant documents: Depending on your circumstances, you may need additional documents such as rental property statements, capital gains records, or foreign income details.
Remember to keep copies of all documents and records for your own reference and in case the ATO requests further information or audits your tax return.

Question 19

What happens if I made an error in my lodged tax return?

Accepted Answer

If you made an error in your lodged tax return, you should take steps to correct it as soon as possible. You can do this by submitting an amendment to your tax return. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows taxpayers to amend their tax returns within two years from the date of assessment. 
To amend your tax return, you can use the ATO's online services, such as the myTax portal or the Business Portal if you are a business taxpayer. Alternatively, you can complete and submit a paper amendment form. 
It's important to note that if the error resulted in you paying less tax than you should have, you may be liable for penalties and interest charges. However, if the error led to you paying more tax than required, you may be eligible for a refund. 
If you are unsure about how to correct the error or need further assistance, it is recommended to seek advice from a registered tax agent or contact the ATO directly.

Question 20

What's the difference between a tax return for an individual and one for a business?

Accepted Answer

A tax return for an individual is filed by an individual taxpayer to report their personal income, deductions, and tax liabilities. It includes income from employment, investments, and other sources. Deductions such as work-related expenses, charitable donations, and medical expenses may be claimed to reduce taxable income.
On the other hand, a tax return for a business is filed by a business entity, such as a sole trader, partnership, company, or trust. It reports the business's income, expenses, and tax obligations. Business tax returns may include additional schedules and forms to report specific types of income or deductions relevant to the business structure.
It's important to note that the specific requirements and forms for individual and business tax returns can vary based on the taxpayer's circumstances and the type of business entity. It is advisable to consult with a tax professional or refer to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website for accurate and up-to-date information.

Question 21

How do I know if I need to submit a tax return?

Accepted Answer

As an Australian taxpayer, you generally need to submit a tax return if you meet any of the following criteria:
1. You earned taxable income above the tax-free threshold ($18,200 for the 2021-2022 financial year).
2. You had tax withheld from your income and want to claim a refund.
3. You received income from sources that are not subject to PAYG withholding (such as rental income, capital gains, or foreign income).
4. You were a foreign resident for tax purposes and earned any income in Australia.
5. You were a working holiday maker and earned any income in Australia.
It's important to note that even if you don't meet these criteria, you may still need to lodge a tax return if you received a request to do so from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). It's recommended to consult with a tax professional or visit the ATO website for personalised advice based on your specific circumstances.

FAQ