How to lodge your tax return
You can prepare and lodge your tax return in a number of ways, but before you lodge you must sign your return, even if someone else prepared it for you.
Lodge online using e-tax
Most people who lodge their own tax return using e-tax get their refund within 12 business days. It's free, easy to use and has built-in checks and calculators to help you.
Lodge by mail
You can use Individual tax return instructions and the paper tax return for individuals to lodge your return by mail. Most refunds are issued within 42 days of lodgment.
Lodge by telephone
If we sent you a Short tax return for individuals or you have simple tax affairs, you may be able to lodge your tax return by telephone.
Use a registered tax agent
If you have more complex tax affairs, you may choose to use a registered tax agent to lodge your tax return.
Signing your tax return or verifying your identity
Even if a registered tax agent or someone else prepares your return, you are responsible for the information it contains. You will be responsible for any extra tax if there is a mistake in your return. You must sign your return or verify your identity or your tax return is not considered to be lodged.
Lodging from overseas
If you need to lodge your tax return from overseas, you can use e-tax or Individual tax return instructions. If you're leaving Australia and you're certain of your income, you may be able to lodge your tax return before the end of the financial year.
Lodging a prior year tax return
If you have not completed your income tax return for a prior year, you can use Individual tax return instructions or engage a registered tax agent to complete your tax return and lodge it by mail. There may be penalties for late lodgment, even if we have agreed to allow you extra time to lodge.
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Last Modified: Wednesday, 7 November 2012