Looking for Tax Accountant in Sydney CBD to maximise your Tax Refund Sydney?
The main reason people search for tax accountants in Sydney CBD is usually because the laws and regulations for taxes changes frequently and with those changes, comes difficulty. What is considered taxable income? What is a legitimate expense? The answers to these questions can change or be modified and the average person or small business owner may not even be aware of the change. An accountant Sydney CBD can help you navigate through the forms, explanations and the laws. The next question is,
…how do I find the best tax accountant in Sydney for my needs?
Following these few steps should help you find the one that will guide you, answer your questions and help you get the best results from your tax situation.
Determining your Needs
Are you looking for accountants Sydney CBD to do a simple Sydney tax return, by appointment or phone where your only income is your place of employment, or do you have a more complex return, such as a business or investments? There are many companies available that can do simple returns. The only disadvantage to using one of these companies is that most of the employees are minimally trained in the tax laws, and they are there for one reason and that is to do as many returns as possible. They are usually reasonable in cost, but as in any purchase, buyers beware! Are you looking for someone to just do your taxes, or do you need someone who can guide you and help you with tax planning, family assets protection strategies and financial records going forward? If you are looking to increase your tax refund Sydney, stocks or real estate holdings you may want more than just a tax agent that fills tax return. These types of determinations can and will have an influence in the type of tax accountant you will need to search for. Once you have determined exactly what you will be looking for in the accountant, now you have to begin the search for them.
How do I find the Best
You must approach this in the same way you do when you are going to be making a major purchase: Research:
- A good place to start is the Google. Look there for all of the ads that list the type of tax accountant in Sydney CBD. Make a list of the ones that you think will fit.
- Check to see if they are registered or certified or chartered. In Australia all accountants must be registered and you can check with the Tax Agents Board to make sure the ones you are interested in are.
- Ask family, friends and business associates. Your attorney or banker may be a good source of information also.
- Visit offices and speak to your candidates. Most reputable accountants will welcome the free first consultation. First impressions can sometimes be the correct ones, so look to see if the office looks professional. Does it appear to be organised? The answer to that question may be an indication as to the type of work they do. Trust yourself with how you feel concerning appearances and the way you are treated while you are in the offices. You are going to have to intrust your financial information to one of these potential accountants, if you don’t feel comfortable, chances are you need to move on to the next candidate.
Ask Questions:
- What do they specialise in tax return? Many accounting firms specialise in areas that may or may not pertain to your needs.
- What is their customer service like? Do they charge for every phone call or letter? Do they email clients with tax news and updates for free? The pricing for their services may be acceptable, but if there are “hidden” charges this may make for an unpleasant surprise when you receive their bill.
- What is their pricing for tax return ? Do they charge by the hour, or is there a set fee for a particular type of work or tax reporting period?
- Besides being registered with the Tax Agents Board are they members of any other organisations? Most accountants will display proudly any associations they are members of (CPA Australia, Institute of Chartered Accountants). These may give you an idea as to how diligent they are in keeping their reputations on a high level with these organisations. If something should go wrong, you will have other avenues to voice your complaints.
- There are even questions you need to ask yourself. Did they ask you questions? Did they spend time trying to get to know your expectations and financial goals? Did you leave feeling like you learned what you needed to know to make an informed decision?
Responsibilities
No matter who you decide upon, you are ultimately responsible for all information in your tax return and tax debt you may have. If you do not provide all of the information for the accountants to prepare a return, you will be held responsible. Your financial information should always be kept current. Keep records that are complete with supporting documentation. You should plan ahead for tax due dates, audits or any other financial checkups that may help your tax accountant Sydney. Be willing to accept advice and to make recommended changes to your finances.
Summary
Know what you need in a tax accountant. Your knowledge of the basics will help you determine what type of accountant you are searching for. Do your research. There are many online sites that you can access free of charge that will answer questions, and give information, like certifications, registrations and business practices. Ask questions, and consult people you believe and trust in to point you in the right direction. Take responsibility for the information you provide to your tax accountant. You can have the most prestigious of firms, but if you do not provide them with the right information for preparation of your Australian Tax Return, the result could cost you in higher taxes, fines and penalties. You are ultimately the one who can make the best decisions for you, your company and your future.
The best accountant in Sydney CBD is one that you feel the most comfortable working with. Use them and the information they provide to improve your chances of success and to increase your tax refund Sydney.