- What happens if I make a mistake
in the questionnaire?
That’s OK. You can review the information you provide at anytime and if there are
any errors, you can correct them very easily. Tax Assistant Online’s powerful validation
engine along with the thorough audit provided by your accountant will ensure there
is no chance of an invalid return being lodged.
- How much does it cost?
The cost depends on the complexity of the tax return and varies from accountant
to accountant. It is recommended you request the fee estimate from the accountant
before you start your tax return. The fee is payable on completion of the tax return
and the balance will be calculated by the system based on the accountant charge
rates for each of items on the tax return.
Lodgment of a simple tax return with one group certificate and a couple of deduction
items will cost as little as $49. For more information go to the
Pricing page on our website.
- What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa and Mastercard. Internet banking or cheque payments can be arranged
with your nominated accountant.
- How long does the whole process
take?
It really depends on the complexity of the tax return. For an average tax return
it will take approximately 20 minutes to enter the data and then allow at least
one day for the accountant to audit your return. Lodgment will take place within
minutes of you digitally signing the return.
- Do I need to provide identification?
No, we do not require any identification from you. However you will be required
to provide your tax file number (TFN) and enter details of all relevant documents.
In case of a discrepancy in the data, the Tax Office may reject your tax return.
- Will I need to sign anything?
You will only be required to digitally sign the completed tax return online. A password
protected PDF file will be sent to you via email to verify your documents. If you
find any errors you will need to contact your nominated accountant, otherwise it
is recommended you keep this file for your own records for a minimum five years.
- What information do I need to
supply?
Our questionnaire will ask you a range of questions. It will ask you for your name,
contact details, and any income details including:
- Group Certificate
- PAYG income statements
- Employment termination payments
- Government payments
- Private pensions
- Interest income
- Dividend income
- Sole Trader/Business income
- Trust income
- Income from a partnership
- Foreign income (excluding foreign pension)
- Rental income
- Capital gains
- Other income (e.g. directors fees, allowances etc.)
- Details of your deductions
If you don’t have all the information at hand while you’re completing your tax return
it is simple to save the details you have already completed and return to finish
it later.
- How easy is it to complete the
questionnaire?
Very easy. Our top priority was to make the online questionnaire easy to use and
understand. You can go back and review your information at any time and make corrections
if required. The online assistant and assistance from your nominated accountant
is available if you need help or have any questions.
- What will I receive when everything
is complete?
You will receive emails every time the status of your tax return changes, this includes,
when it is: started, prepared, audited, paid for, signed, lodged, assessed. The
progress of your return and details of your account can be viewed online. The ‘assessed’
email will be sent once the funds are transferred to your account or your nominated
accountant receives a payable assessment notice.
- Do I need to post anything or
lodge anything in hard copy?
No, you do not need to provide the Australian Tax Office with a hard copy of your
return. Our electronic system will lodge your tax return. You should print and sign
a copy of your return and retain it for five years. In some special circumstances
your accountant may request a hard copy or an email of the scanned documents.
- Who should use this site?
This website can be used by anybody who wishes to complete their Australian tax
return. Accountants in public practice can also use it. Accountants have to be pre-registered
by Software Assistant Pty Ltd before they can use the site.
- What times of day can I use this
website to prepare my tax return?
You can use this website 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, you will only be
able to receive assistance from your nominated accountant during their business
hours.
- What is your refund policy?
We only provide refunds to accountants who have subscribed to Tax Assistant Online.
We take no responsibility for services provided by accountants in their dealings
with taxpayers. The taxpayer is required to negotiate any refund with their nominated
accountant. Since there is no upfront payment or commitment, the need for a refund
is unlikely.
- How secure is my confidential
information?
We use advanced encrypting (known as 128-bit encryption) technology to ensure your
information is protected. Our information system is located in secured facility.