FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What information do you need to prepare my tax return?
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.
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 Saturday. We never do appointments on Sunday.
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.
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!
How soon do I get my tax refund?
Do you do late/overdue/multiple year tax returns?
Absolutely. That is one of our specialties. See bristax.com.au/late-tax-return/ for more info.
If I owe too much tax, will you turn me away?
It depends. If you pay our fees and are willing to take our advice, we would be happy to help you. If you are living in denial and don’t want to face up to reality, unfortunately we won’t be able 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.
Do you charge a Consultation Fee?
Yes we do, and payment upfront is required. Please see our pricing. Our time is usually charged at a minimum of $180 per half hour. Our consultation fee is tax deductible however. The reason we charge is because we would go broke if we didn’t. As highly trained professionals, we have spent many years of unpaid time in study and training. Time is our most valuable resource. Once spent, it can never be recovered.
We are happy to assist existing clients with minor tax questions at no charge, as part of our service. We often reward our long term clients with premium service.
Do you advise on International Tax issues?
Unlike many of our competitors, we 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.
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 you advise on International Tax issues?
Unlike many of our competitors, we 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.
Great experience with the tax return. Very professional, great communication, excellent advise on the return and completed quickly. All at a very reasonable price.