Tax time 2017 ATO service commitments
The ATO have announced their service standard commitments for the upcoming 2017 tax year.
Tax returns
The ATO will aim to finalise the majority of electronically lodged current year tax returns within 12 business days of receipt.
This includes both individual and non-individual tax returns.
Tax returns lodged on paper could take up to 50 business days from receipt to be finalised.
“The ATO’s Tax Time 2017 service commitments are designed to help taxpayers lodge correctly, understand their obligations, and access personalised support where needed.”
Amendments
The ATO will aim to finalise the majority of electronically-lodged amendments within 20 business days of receipt. Amendments lodged on paper could take up to 50 business days from receipt to finalisation.
In addition, refunds for 2017 tax returns will start being received from Tuesday, 18th July 2017 onwards.
If you have any questions about your income tax affairs for the financial year ended 30th June 2017, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Norman Ruan
Accountant
T: 02 9984 7774
E: normanr@northadvisory.com.au
Martin van der Saag
Director
T: 02 9984 7774
E: martinv@northadvisory.com.au
“Key focus areas include clearer communication, better digital tools, and proactive education to reduce errors and improve compliance at tax time.”
About the author
Cayle Petritsch - Director & Wealth Advisor
Cayle Petritsch, Director and Wealth Advisor, works with our existing clients who have recognised the importance of business owners making strategic financial choices not only for their company, but for their personal finances too.
Cayle saw a great opportunity to expand North Advisory’s services into SMSF/superannuation, personal wealth management, asset protection services and other crucial personal finance facets that business owners need to consider.
His approach to wealth management allows you to receive highly personalised wealth advice. Working closely with Marius, Cayle understands the unique needs of every client, from their lifestyle and business goals to their retirement plans.
Key Takeaways
The ATO’s Tax Time 2017 service commitments focus on improving clarity and accessibility of tax information.
Clear guidance on deductions, record-keeping and compliance helps taxpayers lodge correctly and confidently.
Key tools and resources were emphasised to help streamline lodgements.
These include online fact sheets, examples of common deductions, and pre-filled or simplified information to reduce errors.
The ATO aimed to communicate proactively about common pitfalls before lodgement deadlines.
Early engagement on topics like work-related expenses or rental property claims was intended to reduce mistakes and compliance issues.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ATO’s service commitments for Tax Time 2017?
The ATO’s service commitments set out how it aims to support taxpayers during the 2017 tax season — including timely guidance, clear information about deductions, and responsive help via digital and phone channels.
Who benefits from these service commitments?
Individual taxpayers, small business owners, tax agents and advisors all benefit. The commitments are intended to improve the experience of lodging returns and accessing helpful information irrespective of whether people use an agent or do their own tax.
How does the ATO help taxpayers understand their obligations?
The ATO provides tools such as online calculators, fact sheets on common deductions, alerts on frequent errors, and targeted communication about record-keeping and compliance, so taxpayers are better informed ahead of lodgement.
What channels does the ATO use to deliver support under these commitments?
Support is delivered through multiple channels: the ATO website, digital services via myGov, phone support, pre-filled information, and education campaigns on common issues such as work-related expenses or rental property deductions.
What happens if a taxpayer needs personalised assistance?
If a taxpayer has a specific query or complexity, the ATO aims to provide tailored support through its help desks, online messaging, or referrals to appropriate guidance — and encourages early contact to avoid last-minute issues.
How long will the ATO take to process electronically lodged tax returns in 2017?
The ATO aimed to finalise the majority of electronically lodged current-year tax returns within 12 business days of receipt.
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