| Frequently Asked Questions
Why use a Registered Tax Agent?
Registered Tax Agent's are regulated by the Tax Practitioner's Board and are required to have a certain level of qualifications and experience in preparing a variety of tax returns to gain their registration. Tax Agents are required to have professional indemnity insurance and must adhere to a code of professional conduct. By using a registered Tax Agent, you are ensuring that your return is being prepared by a suitably qualified person. You can see whether a Tax Agent is registered by searching on www.tpb.gov.au.
What's the due date to lodge tax return lodged?
If you prepare your tax return yourself, the due date is 31 October. By using a Tax Agent, you may be eligible for extensions up to 15 May, but this depends on your level of income and lodgement history. If you have not used a Tax Agent in the past, you will need to contactSapphire Accounting & Taxation before 31 October.
How much will my tax return cost?
The cost to prepare a tax return will vary based on the complexity of the return. Our prices start from $110 including GST for a basic PAYG (employee) tax return.
For businesses, it is difficult to provide an estimate of the cost without knowledge of your whole situation, so we suggest contacting us for an obligation free discussion or consultation, after which we can give you a quote of our fees.
All Tax Agent fees paid will be tax deductible.
How hard is it to change accountants?
Most people compare changing accountants to changing banks. They have a history and regardless of the service they are currently receiving, will continue to go back year after year because it's just too hard.
In most cases, it can be a fairly simple transition and it can highlight issues that have previously not been dealt with as you are having a fresh set of eyes looking over your affairs.
I have multiple years outstanding, can you help?
Yes, we can help get you up to date and all returns can be done at the same time.
How long will it take to receive my refund?
Once a tax return is lodged, it takes approximately 14 days to receive your refund, but it is dependent on Tax Office processing times.
Can you see me after hours?
We do offer a mobile service for after hours, depending on your location and availability. A list of locations can be found here.
How long will it take to prepare my tax returns?
Please allow 1 hour per tax return. We recommend you have a look at our checklists to ensure that you have all of the information available at the time of your appointment.
Can I just send my paperwork and not come in?
Of course you can! We will let you know once we have received your paperwork and keep you informed of the status of the returns.
Can you deduct your fees from my refund?
No, we do not offer this service due to the onerous requirements and cost involved in doing so, which would have to be passed on to clients. You are able to pay our fees by Credit Card (Visa / Mastercard only), bank deposit, cash or cheque.
There's an error in my last year's tax return, what do I do?
You can notify the Tax Office in writing of the error, or you can get us to contact the Tax Office on your behalf.
I need to set up a company or trust. Can you help me?
Yes, we can assist you with the establishment of all types of entities, as well as applying for ABNs, Tax File Numbers and PAYG Withholding. We can also advise you of what type of entity will best suit your circumstances. The cost involved will be explained up front, and generally we pass on the cost of our service provider without any mark up to save you money. | 
