Unsure what to do following an adverse tax decision by the Australian Taxation Office? 

Meet the Small Business Concierge, a service provided by the office of the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) to help small businesses decide whether to apply to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) for review of an ATO decision.

Ombudsman Kate Carnell said the service means it is now simpler, faster and cheaper for small businesses to address their tax disputes with the ATO.

“Our case managers will help small business owners understand the AAT process; providing information on costs and timelines to support a timely resolution,” said Ms Carnell.

“Small business owners without legal representation will be offered one hour with an experienced small business tax lawyer at a cost of just $100, as we fund the difference. The lawyer will review relevant documents and provide advice on the viability of the appeal.”

Should an appeal progress, ASBFEO case managers will help small business owners with the process.

“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.

“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,” said Ms Carnell.

Find more information about the service here.

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