This afternoon, Chris Jordan, Commissioner of Taxation issued a statement to the tax profession, in relation to COVID-19.

“As the COVID-19 situation continues to develop, I wanted to take the opportunity to personally reassure the tax profession that the ATO is here to support you and your clients.

I have always said that the tax profession is one of the ATO’s most trusted partners. Now, as Australia works collectively to respond to the widespread and complex impacts of COVID-19, that partnership is more important than ever.

With the virus threatening not only our health but the economy, business and Australians’ livelihoods, I know that both you and your clients will be feeling the effects. I want you to know that we are here to help.”

Read The Commissioner’s full statement here.

Update on support and guidance

The ATO has also released support and guidance for tax professionals on matters including Lodgment, Deferrals and myGovID, available in full here.

Some of the main points include:

Lodgment

Lodgments are not being deferred automatically at this point, however, a lodgment deferral for up to 4 weeks can be requested by completing the application form and attaching it to a Practice Mail message in Online services for agents.

Deferrals, payment plans and tax debts

If your client has an existing payment plan which they cannot meet, you can now cancel or adjust this through Online Services for Agents. If further liabilities need to be added, or the time extended, you should cancel the payment plan and enter a new one.

myGovID

AUSkey closure will go ahead as planned at 11:59pm AEDST this Friday 27 March. If you still need to switch to MyGovID, do it now to maintain access for your practice.