Guide to correcting mistakes and disputing decisions

Unclaimed refunds and credits

You do not have to claim a credit or refund in the BAS period it arises, regardless of whether it relates to GST, luxury car tax (LCT), wine equalisation tax (WET) or fuel tax credits.

Because not claiming a refund or credit is not a mistake, claiming it later is also not a correction. There is, however, a four-year time limit on claiming most refunds and credits. The four-year period starts from the end of the tax period the credit arose or, for excise on imported goods, the date of importation.

You can claim credits on the activity statement that is current when you find the entitlement, provided you are within the time limit. If it is a fuel tax credit, you must work out the amount using the rate that applies at the time you make the claim.

If you know you want to claim a WET credit, fuel tax credit or GST refund but are unable to do it within the four-year period, you need to let us know before the time limit expires. For GST, use the form, Notification of entitlement to GST refund (NAT 11719).

Excise

Some excise refund applications must be submitted within 14 days of the date on which the excise duty was paid. This time may be extended to 12 months in some circumstances. Claims for drawback of duty must be lodged within 12 months of the date of export.

Sections within Correct an instalment or business activity statement

Last Modified: Tuesday, 3 July 2012