What information do I need to get my tax return done?
If you are a new client, please see our New Client Tax Return Checklist
If you are a past client, please see our Past Client Tax Return Checklist
Why are appointment bookings limited to 4 weeks in advance?
We limit forward bookings as many times clients end up rescheduling if bookings are made too far in advance. For example, they haven’t received employer income statements, private health insurance statements, investment income details etc. Or unexpected personal or work situations arise since the original booking.
There’s no need to book more than 4 weeks in advance as due to our efficient system you will usually be able to find an available appointment anywhere from the next day to within a couple of weeks at the latest.
If you have the necessary documents, you can book a schedule on our Appointment Booking Page.
How long do appointments take?
Our appointments usually take half an hour for most standard tax returns. If you have a non-standard return, then it will usually take an hour or longer.
However, you can streamline the process to some extent by emailing your information to us before your appointment.
You can book a schedule on our Appointment Booking Page.
Do you do appointments outside normal business hours?
Normally we don’t, but we can where necessary. During the peak tax return season (July to October) we have extended operating hours, and we usually do appointments on Saturdays. We never do appointments on Sundays.
You can book a schedule on our Appointment Booking Page.
What are the differences between Office Appointments, Phone/Videocall Appointments, & Tax Online?
The same expert tax accountants do our Office Appointments, Phone/Videocall Appointments, and Online Tax Returns, so rest assured your tax return will be prepared to the highest standards.
Most people find that our Online Tax Return service is the most convenient, as you can submit your info to us anytime, without needing to book an appointment. We usually complete your tax return within 24 hours of receiving all your information.
You can book a schedule on our Appointment Booking Page.
How can I pay?
We accept Visa/Mastercard/Bank transfer/Paypal/Cash.
In many situations we can automatically deduct our fee from your tax refund, but there is a surcharge of $40 for that. However, our fee is tax deductible!
If I owe too much tax, will you turn me away?
If you are willing to take our advice and pay our fees we are happy to help you. The ATO is actually more lenient than most people realise. They won’t throw you in jail just because you can’t pay your tax. They are happy to organise a payment plan for outstanding tax.
How soon do I get my tax refund?
Your refund usually takes 7 to 14 days to reach your bank account. However, it can take longer if the ATO needs to investigate any information declared on your tax return.
Do you offer a Free Consultation?
We offer a free initial consultation if you are a potential new business, investment or SMSF client. The purpose of the consultation is to discuss your situation and explain how we can help you.
If you are seeking tax or accounting advice, we suggest you book a half hour consultation. Please see our pricing. Our consultation fee is tax deductible.
We assist existing clients with minor tax questions at no charge, as part of our service.
Do you advise on International Tax issues?
Unlike many of our competitors, we have the expertise to advise on the Australian aspects of international tax issues. Australian tax is complicated. International tax is another level of complexity on top of Australian tax. Few accountants are able to expertly advise on international tax issues.
Please note that we do not prepare foreign tax returns e.g. USA tax returns. We advise on the Australian tax ramifications of foreign income & expenses, and various business structures.
Do you do instant/same day tax refunds?
No. There is no such thing as a “same day” or “instant” tax refund from the ATO. Any firm who offers such a service makes a loan to you upfront, then they get paid when your refund comes through from the ATO.
While that may sound attractive, be aware that the fees charged by firms for providing that type of service are quite high.
What qualifications/expertise do Bristax accountants have?
BrisTax is registered with the Tax Practitioners Board as a Tax Agent (Registration number 79488000). Unlike many of our competitors, we are also a member of CPA Australia and the Tax Institute. The Tax Institute is Australia’s #1 Tax Professional Association. Our tax accountants are much more experienced than most of our competitors.
To learn more about our key team members, please check our About page.
Why are Bristax fees higher than most tax agents/tax accountants?
Because we are much more experienced and normally do a better job than most tax agents and tax accountants. In most situations, we can get a larger tax refund. In some situations however, there is little we can do to influence the outcome.
Do I need to lodge a tax return?
Essentially, if you earn more than $18,200 in taxable income it’s likely that you will need to lodge a tax return. However, there are exceptions, so please contact us if you’re unsure.
Do you do late/overdue/multiple year tax returns?
Absolutely. That is one of our specialties. See our Late Tax Return page for more info.
Great experience with the tax return. Very professional, great communication, excellent advise on the return and completed quickly. All at a very reasonable price.