Tax Time Scams
CoggerGurry • September 3, 2024
An ever-increasing number of email and SMS scams are doing the rounds in 2024, but perhaps most troubling is the fact that they are becoming increasingly believable.
In our industry they are typically sent from scammers purporting to be the ATO and seeking additional information to you as a taxpayer.
Key things to remember if you are confronted with a suspicious email or SMS.
- Look out for messages containing a link that asks you to log in to a government service such as myGov. The ATO has recently removed all hyperlinks in unsolicited, outbound SMS, so if you’ve received a message that appears to be from the ATO but contains a link, it’s a scam.
- You should always access ATO services by visiting ato.gov.au or my.gov.au, or via the ATO app.
- Be careful of emails requesting personal or financial information, especially if they claim to be urgent or time sensitive. The ATO will never ask for passwords, account numbers, or other sensitive data via email, SMS or unsolicited phone calls.
- Be wary of downloading attachments or opening email links. They can infect your computer with malware, leading to information being stolen.
In summary, if in doubt call CoggerGurry on 03 5571 0111, as your tax agent we can confirm any correspondence from the ATO or provide advice if you think you’ve had your security breached.
Our office will be closed for the Easter Holiday from Friday the 18th till Monday the 21st April, reopening on Tuesday the 22nd April 2025 Everyone here at CoggerGurry would like to wish you all a safe and happy Easter break
Our office will be closed for the Easter Holiday from Friday the 18th till Monday the 21st April, reopening on Tuesday the 22nd April 2025 Everyone here at CoggerGurry would like to wish you all a safe and happy Easter break
The 2025–26 Federal Budget has reinforced the Albanese Government’s commitment to tax compliance, with a major boost in funding to the ATO to strengthen enforcement—including Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT). With that extra funding comes increased ATO scrutiny on employers. If you're responsible for FBT compliance, now’s the time to get your house in order. High-Risk Areas Under the ATO Microscope : 🚗 Car Fringe Benefits Incorrect vehicle classification (especially dual cab utes and SUVs). Invalid or poor-quality logbooks. Incorrectly treating private use (e.g. home to work, errands) as business use. Misuse of the statutory formula method. 🍽️ Meals & Entertainment Misunderstanding what qualifies as deductible vs. entertainment. Inadequate documentation for functions or staff events. Incorrect application of the "otherwise deductible" rule. ⚡ Electric and Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles From 1 April 2025 , PHEVs lose their FBT exemption unless: The car was in use before 1 April 2025, and There is a binding agreement to continue use post-1 April. Many employers are still unaware of these transitional rules. 🚨 What the ATO Is Watching Nil or non-lodged returns where fringe benefits were likely provided. Incorrect treatment of employee contributions . Mismatches between FBT and income tax reporting. Penalties can be up to 75% of the shortfall , so it pays to be proactive. ✅ What You Should Do Review the benefits you've provided in the 2025 FBT year. Reassess logbooks, vehicle use, and entertainment records. Seek advice on grey areas like PHEVs or meal benefits. Lodge and pay on time. 📞 Need help reviewing your FBT exposure before the deadline? Get in touch today—we’re here to help you stay compliant and penalty-free. Read more about this on our website HERE or give us a call on 03) 5571 0111 📅 Key FBT Dates for 2025 FBT year ends : 31 March 2025 Lodgment due (paper) : 21 May 2025 Lodgment due (tax agent) : 25 June 2025 Payment due : 28 May 2025
