Warning: This information may not apply to the current year. Check the content carefully to ensure it is applicable to your circumstances.
30 June 2010
Most people generally need to lodge a tax return every year. If you have not lodged a tax return for a few years or you have a return outstanding, you must contact the ATO as soon as possible.
You have from 1 July to 31 October each year to lodge your tax return unless it is prepared by a registered tax agent.
If you cannot lodge by 31 October you need to contact the ATO before 31 October to discuss your situation.
If you lodge your past return voluntarily and you do not owe any tax the ATO generally will not charge penalties. So, if you have past returns to lodge, no matter how late you are, the sooner you do so the better.
However, if you lodge your tax return late the ATO may apply a 'failure to lodge on time' penalty.
The ATO is more likely to apply a penalty if you have:
- more than one tax return outstanding
- a poor lodgement history, or
- not complied with a request to lodge your tax return.
How to lodge
If you want to lodge a previous year's tax return you can order TaxPack through the ATO website or by calling 1300 720 092.
The easiest way to lodge your tax return for this year is online using e-tax, the ATO's free online lodgement service. Visit www.ato.gov.au for more information.
You can also lodge using TaxPack 2010 or through a registered tax agent. TaxPack is available from most newsagencies, ATO shopfronts or the ATO website. If you are using a new tax agent or a different one from last year you need to contact them before 31 October.
More information
More information on how to lodge is available from the ATO website www.ato.gov.au or by calling 13 28 61.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 30 June 2010