Article
Struggling to pay your tax bill in full or on time?
Speak to your local TaxAssist Accountant if you need support to create a payment plan.
You should always aim to pay your tax bill in full and on time. This will help you avoid paying the general interest charge (GIC), which is currently 11.34% and accrues daily for any overdue debts.
What to do if you can’t pay your tax bill?
If your business is dealing with some financial difficulties, if you are eligible, you may be able to set up a payment plan. It’s important that you address any overdue debt as soon as possible and do not ignore the situation. A tax professional – such as your local TaxAssist Accountant - can help you by discussing your options.
What is a payment plan?
A payment plan allows you to break down your payment into smaller amounts that are made via instalments and are spread over the shortest possible fixed period of time. When you set up a payment plan, you pay an agreed sum of money weekly, fortnightly or monthly until the balance is cleared.
Tax debts on a payment plan continue to accrue GIC, which compounds daily. Paying your debt in the shortest period of time will help reduce the GIC that you’ll pay.
Could I be eligible for a GIC remission?
It is possible for the ATO to cancel your GIC.
They will look at the request and take into account whether you paid your tax bill late because of circumstances that were:
- beyond your control and what steps you took to relieve the effects of those circumstances
- within your control but led to results that you couldn't foresee.
How we can help
Your local TaxAssist Accountant will be glad to help with all of your tax and accounting needs. Call us on 02 9608 3707 or contact us here. We also offer a free 20 minute initial consultation.
Date published 28 May 2024
This article is intended to inform rather than advise and is based on legislation and practice at the time. Taxpayer’s circumstances do vary and if you feel that the information provided is beneficial it is important that you contact us before implementation. If you take, or do not take action as a result of reading this article, before receiving our written endorsement, we will accept no responsibility for any financial loss incurred.Choose the right accounting firm for you
Running your own business can be challenging so why not let TaxAssist Accountants manage your tax, accounting, bookkeeping and payroll needs? If you are not receiving the service you deserve from your accountant, then perhaps it’s time to make the switch?
Local business focus
We specialise in supporting independent businesses. Each TaxAssist Accountant runs their own business, and are passionate about supporting you.
Come and meet us
We enjoy talking to business owners and self-employed professionals who are looking to get the most out of their accountant. You can visit us at any of our multiple locations, meet with us online through video call software, or talk to us by telephone.
Switching is simple
Changing accountants is easier than you might think. There are no tax implications and you can switch at any time in the year and our team will guide you through the process for a smooth transition.