Tax concierge service open to small businesses

Small business taxpayers wanting an external review of an adverse tax decision by the Australian Taxation Office through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) can now contact the office of the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) for assistance.

"It is now simpler, faster and cheaper for small businesses to address their tax disputes with the ATO, with the help of our Small Business Concierge Service," Ombudsman Kate Carnell said.

"Our case managers will help small business owners understand the AAT process; providing information on costs and timelines to support a timely resolution."

Ms Carnell revealed that small business owners without legal representation will be offered one hour with an experienced small business tax lawyer at a cost of $100, as the ASBFEO funds the difference.

The lawyer will review relevant documents and provide advice on the viability of the appeal.

"Should an appeal progress, our case managers will help the small business owner with the process," Ms Carnell said.

"After lodging the application with the AAT, the small business owner will be assigned a case manager from the AAT’s new Small Business Taxation Division and ASBFEO will offer an additional hour with a lawyer, at no cost to the small business."

She noted that small business taxation decisions will be finalised within a turnaround time of 28 days from the date of a hearing at the AAT.

"We look forward to supporting small businesses achieve fairer tax outcomes," Ms Carnell concluded.