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Guide to payments and refunds for individuals

 
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Overview

This information is for individual taxpayers but not companies, partnerships or trusts. It explains what happens after you lodge your tax return.

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If you are a sole trader, you may have other payment obligations or refund entitlements. See:

Your notice of assessment

After you lodge your tax return, we issue you with a notice of assessment. This tells you whether you'll receive a tax refund or have to pay us. When you receive your notice of assessment, you should make sure that everything on it is correct.

When will you get your refund?

If you're due a refund you'll usually get it within 12 business days if you lodged your return electronically (including e-tax) or 42 days if it was a paper return. If your return is incomplete, incorrect or needs checking, it may take us longer. If you provide your bank account details in your return, your refund can be paid directly into it. If account details are not provided your refund cheque will be mailed to you.

Paying your tax

If you have to pay tax, you can choose from a number of payment options, including BPAY®, credit card, direct credit, direct debit, cheque, and over the counter at Australia Post outlets.

If you can't pay your tax on time it's important to let us know and make alternative payment arrangements. You can use our automated service to set up a payment schedule, or discuss your circumstances with one of our support staff.

Penalties and interest

If you don't pay the tax you owe, or you don't meet all your tax obligations, you may have to pay interest on the outstanding amount and you may also incur penalties.

® Registered to BPAY Pty Ltd ABN 69 079 137 518

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Payments and refunds - home

Last Modified: Thursday, 21 February 2013

 
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