Self Tax File Return - Seek Advice

deepakkumar1983 on 24/08/2023 - 00:50
Last edited 24/08/2023 - 08:50 by 1 other user

Hello all, I am doing the tax file return myself for the first time, all in the spirit of understanding and gaining knowledge on how it's done. The prior years were done by a tax agent. When I approached her for help, she refused stating it's a professional breach and what not!

What I am looking for is an experienced set of eyes checking/validating my entries via screen share (TeamViewer or any standard screen sharing application) as I prepare my tax file on ATO website.

I have a single source of income so it shouldn't be too complicated.

Appreciate your help!

cheers All

Financial Income Tax Return

Comments

  • Hybroid on 24/08/2023 - 00:52
    +14

    This is not a smart idea. There's a lot of personal information included that should not be viewed by randoms.

    It's not a complicated process. Fill it in as best as you can (most employers pre-fill data) and there's lots of guidance help notes and a call centre number that will answer your questions.

    Anything incorrect or missing, the ATO will get back to you and ask for clarification.

    • deepakkumar1983 on 24/08/2023 - 01:20

      Thanks! I hope I have maxed my returns:)

  • Mokr on 24/08/2023 - 00:54
    +2

    Look at the past entires

    • BewareOfThe Dog on 24/08/2023 - 11:50

      Mine is a bit more complicated, as I work 3 different companies, as well as worked as an independant contractor. I did it myself for the 1st time (in 7 years), as my tax agent can take 2 to 3 months,and I needed a return quick. I based it on settings from last years tax return, and the refund was in my account 4 working days later.

  • El cheepo on 24/08/2023 - 01:25
    +4

    Family or trusted friends in person is your best bet.

    Not some stranger behind a computer…

    • Sinnerator on 24/08/2023 - 08:31

      unless they have a funny accent

  • holdenmg on 24/08/2023 - 02:32
    +5

    Why would a Tax Professional (that you have previously paid for advice or service) say or do anything that may potentially expose them to liability?

  • foxmulder on 24/08/2023 - 07:35

    Why don't you just share your issue here?

    • MS Paint on 24/08/2023 - 08:11
      +2

      Seek Advise

      I would say they are wondering if they can claim a grammerly subscription on their tax return?

  • Danstar on 24/08/2023 - 08:30
    +5

    Open up ATO Website. Click Lodge. That's you're safest bet compared to asking random Internet users on an bargain hunting website.

    • CheapandUsed on 24/08/2023 - 10:10

      This is the way, if you made a mistake the ATO will absolutely crush let you know

  • JimmyF on 24/08/2023 - 09:06
    +2

    When I approached her for help, she refused stating it's a professional breach and what not!

    LOL Of course they won't help, you are moving away from them.

    Did you also expect them to do this for free!?

    What I am looking for is an experienced set of eyes checking/validating my entries

    Compare it to previous tax years then

    • djkelly69 on 24/08/2023 - 10:10
      +4

      "Hi, I used to pay you to do my tax return but I don't want to pay you anymore so I am doing it myself, and I was wondering if you could help me do it?"

      • JimmyF on 24/08/2023 - 10:15
        +3

        Basically…. then surprised when they say no.

    • deepakkumar1983 on 24/08/2023 - 12:37
      +1

      Lol, I found the excuse funny for not doing.

      I believe nothing comes for free in this world, so I offered her the same amount as she would for doing the actual filing but…:)

  • capslock janitor on 24/08/2023 - 09:20
    +2

    change tax agent when it gets serious

  • randomusername2017 on 24/08/2023 - 11:13

    I am doing the tax file return myself for the first time

    ~

    I have a single source of income so it shouldn't be too complicated

    …and the problem is?….

    • deepakkumar1983 on 24/08/2023 - 12:40

      Just the first time anxiety!
      But I am convinced now that there is scope of correction for any error.

      • PissLUR on 24/08/2023 - 14:05
        +1

        Just start the process. You will have ample time to review before lodging.

  • miwahni on 24/08/2023 - 20:51
    +1

    If you're really concerned and want (free) help, give your local MP's office a call. There is a nationwide program controlled by the ATO but organised out of MPs' offices, whereby suitably trained volunteers will assist with simple (ie PAYG only) returns - it generally runs from late July until the end of October.

    • CheapskateQueen on 24/08/2023 - 22:14

      correct. ATO offers help as well.

      do not share your screen with any stranger from the internet.

  • Toph Beifong on 24/08/2023 - 22:22
    +1

    I've done the past 6 years of returns on my own, but I only have income and some Capital gains on shares, no deductions either. If you work directly for your company, your income should automatically populate when you start your tax return. Working for employment agencies/labour hire does get a bit more complicated.

  • deepakkumar1983 on 25/08/2023 - 18:22
    +1

    Thanks guys for all the help and support. All done with my tax filing. Phew! It wasn't complicated but certainly a lil' learning curve for the first timer. But what a relief!
    I spent few hours goings through various youtube channels ( for demos) and ATO website. It took me a while to calculate WFH exemption, depreciating asset (monitors etc.), self education expenses (DevOps certifications etc), setting up private health insurance ( I didn't had in previous years) and getting hold of tax bills I didn't care to track before.

    Once these were in place the rest was a cakewalk.

    Time to implement these on partner's filing :)

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