Important information you need to know when using a tax agent or BAS agent

With the introduction of the new Tax Agent Services Act 2009 there are benefits to taxpayers who use a registered tax agent or BAS agent. If you are paying someone to do your BAS, make sure they are registered.

The new law includes a Code of Professional Conduct which aims to ensure services provided to you, by registered agents, meet appropriate ethical and professional standards.

Taxpayers are further protected by safe harbour provisions (administered by the ATO) which may guard you from administrative penalties, where your agent did not take reasonable care.

Visit www.tpb.gov.au about registered tax agents or www.ato.gov.au/newregime for more information about safe harbour provisions.

URGENT information for those who provide a BAS service for a fee or other reward
Many small businesses provide BAS services for a fee or other reward. If you provide BAS services for a fee or reward, you must register with the Tax Practitioners Board. To take advantage of generous transitional arrangements – notify online before 31 August 2010, and you:

can register for free
are taken to be registered for two years from 1 March 2010

Visit www.tpb.gov.au for more information.

For employees of small business who prepare BAS

You are not required to register as a BAS agent if you do your own BAS or are an employee who is performing BAS services on behalf of the business. Remember if you need help preparing a BAS, visit the small business support page at www.ato.gov.au/smallbusinesssupport. The ATO provides a number of free services including seminars and workshops and onsite visits that can help you complete BAS preparation and lodgment.