If you’re coming in soon to discuss your tax return for yourself or your business with one of our accountants, then you want to be fully prepared by not arriving completely empty handed, or at least be prepared with some records or have easy access to them.
Here is a brief, general checklist to help you prepare for your tax return appointment. Not all of the items will be relevant for everyone; what you need will depend on your own circumstances.
Vital things to prepare for your tax return
Income Information
PAYG summaries from employers.
Bank statements for any interest earned during the financial year.
Distributions from trusts, partnerships, managed super funds
Capital gains – for example, sale of shares or property.
Dividends.
Personal services income.
Net income/loss from business.
Rental income – for example, from an investment property.
Lump sum termination payments.
Superannuation lump sum payments.
Expenses for tax deductions
Motor vehicle expenses based on business use percentage and kilometres travelled (include your logbook if applicable).
Travel and accommodation information – domestic and overseas.
Work uniforms and other clothing expenses.
Courses, education and seminars.
Home office expenses.
Computer, software and repairs.
Tools and equipment.
Employee costs.
Superannuation contributions.
Rent/lease payments.
Interest paid – say on an investment property.
Dividend deductions.
Bank fees.
Low value pool deductions / depreciation.
Telephone and internet costs.
Freight and transport costs.
Utilities – electricity, gas, water.
Legal and accounting fees.
Donations.
Income protection insurance.
Details of any asset purchases.
Childcare expenses.
NOTE: We highly recommend that you keep receipts for all expenses and tax deductions you are claiming for your business. Scan and file them electronically so that they are accessible should you need them for audit purposes.
If you have business you may need to provide more files
In addition to the above information, you may also need to produce the following information for review, so it is recommended you scan or photocopy these:
Bank and credit card statements.
Lease, hire purchase, chattel mortgage or other loan agreements to your business.
Business Activity Statements and Instalment Activity Statements and working papers.
Stock valuation figures after performing your June 30 stocktake.
We will work through every allowable tax deduction available for you and / or your business. Don’t forget to ask us what tax incentives are available to you as these may work to increase your tax deductions.
