Individuals: Tax Time FAQ's - General Lodgement

1. Do you need to lodge an income tax return for 2009?

Whether or not you need to lodge an income tax return will depend on the amount and type of income you have received in the previous income year, if any tax was withheld and your personal circumstances.

To find out if you need to lodge a tax return, enter your details into the self-help tool Do I need to lodge a tax return?


2. When do you have to lodge your 2009 tax return?

If you prepare and lodge your own tax return, the lodgement deadline is Friday 31 October 2009.

If you lodge through a registered tax agent, they have their own lodgement deadlines.

However, if you are using a tax agent for the first time, or you are going to use a different tax agent this year, you must contact them by Friday 31 October 2009.


3. What penalties will you be charged if you don’t lodge your tax return on time?

Penalties are imposed on a case–by-case basis and depend on your lodgement history, amount of tax payable and when your tax return is lodged.

We cannot tell you whether a penalty will be applied, or the amount, before you lodge your tax return. However, our policy is not to apply a penalty if your tax return
is lodged voluntarily, and does not result in any tax payable.

If your tax return results in you having to pay money to the Tax Office and you don't pay on time, we may impose general interest charges starting from the date the payment was due.

If you disagree with the imposition of penalties or general interest charge, refer to Objections, amendments and reviews essentials.


4. If you change your name and/or address, do you need to update your contact details before lodging your tax return?

You don't have to update your contact details before you lodge your tax return.
Simply complete your tax return using the current name and address, and ensure that you indicate on the return that your contact details have changed from last year.
If you wish to update your contact details after you have lodged your tax return, you can notify us in writing or by phone. For more information, see Updating your name and address


5. How do you order TaxPack 2009, or other publications?

You can order any Tax Office publication online. They will be sent to your address within five to seven working days. To access our online publications ordering system, see Order Tax Office products online.

Many Tax Office publications and forms can be downloaded from this website. For more information, see Booklets and publications.

Alternatively you can order publications anytime, 24 hours a day, by phoning our self-help line on 1300 720 092 and stating the title of the publication you require and the address you would like it posted to.


6. How do you make a Family Tax Benefit claim?

As of 1 July 2009, Family Tax Benefit is no longer claimed through the Tax Office. All claims and payments will be made from the Family Assistance Office.

For more information on the Family Tax Benefit, including eligibility, visit the Family Assistance Office website at http://www.familyassist.gov.au/