A Guide to ATO PAYG Notifications
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) employs various methods to issue PAYG (Pay As You Go) instalment notices to business owners. These notifications are crucial for taxpayers and businesses to stay compliant with their tax obligations.
Here we outline the different ways the ATO communicates PAYG Instalments and how business owners can effectively manage them.
Methods of Issuing PAYG Instalments
The ATO employs four primary methods to issue PAYG Instalments:
- Post – Direct to You: In this method, the ATO sends PAYG Instalment notifications directly to your business postal address.
- Post – To Tax Agent: In some cases, the ATO sends notifications to Carrick Aland’s office, as Registered Tax Agents.
- MyGov – Accessible via MyGov App: Business owners can access their PAYG Instalment notifications through the MyGov platform and its accompanying app.
- Digital – Accessible via Business Portal: If not via post or MyGov, the ATO generates notices digitally which we email to you (or post if there is no email address recorded for you).
Managing PAYG Instalments
To ensure you effectively manage your PAYG Instalments, it’s essential to understand how each method works:
1. Post – Direct to You:
When you receive a PAYG Instalment notification directly to your postal address, take note that your tax agent or accountant may not be informed. Always check with us if you are unsure what your postal address may be with the ATO.
2. Post – To Tax Agent:
In cases where the ATO sends your notifications to our office, if email forwarding is not possible, we will forward the notification to your postal address. Ensure you promptly attend to any PAYG correspondence to avoid missing important deadlines.
3. MyGov – Accessible via MyGov App:
Businesses will receive an email notification from MyGov when a new PAYG Instalment message is available. To access the notification, log into your MyGov account. Ensure you check the portal regularly to avoid missing these important messages.
4. Digital – Accessible via Business Portal:
For businesses, PAYG Instalment notifications are accessible through the Business Portal. If we cannot email you the notification, we will send it via post. PAYG Instalment notices are made available for businesses through the ATO’s Business Portal, an online platform designed to facilitate tax-related transactions. Regularly check your email and the Business Portal for updates to stay on top of your PAYG obligations.
What happens if you miss a notification?
Missing a PAYG instalment notification can lead to complications with the ATO. If you overlook a message from MyGov or an email from your tax agent, you may receive an overdue debt letter from the ATO via post. It’s crucial to take immediate action upon receiving an overdue debt letter to avoid penalties.
Managing PAYG Instalments is an integral part of staying compliant with your tax obligations. Understanding the different methods the ATO uses to communicate these notifications and checking your post, emails and online portals are essential steps to ensure smooth tax management. Read more here or contact Carrick Aland Accountants in Dalby, Toowoomba or Chinchilla on 07 4669 9800. Also check our Events Calendar and Important Dates for upcoming deadlines.
