No-one wants to have the ATO on their doorstep, or on the phone, asking questions and delving intopersonal or business affairs. But it's part of their job. It's important, says tax expert Michael Jones, of Cummings Flavel McCormack, to find out what's triggered their enquiry and assess whether it's reasonable. Be helpful, he says, but keep it formal too. Check identification and authorisations, and keep an accurate record of all your dealings. ATO officers have a duty to be fair and reasonable, and there's a taxpayers' charter - available online - which sets out your rights and obligations, and your options for appeal if you want to dispute the eventual outcome.
Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
|
