Useful Forms and FAQ
The following forms are available for download. Please note that most forms are in Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) format. You will need an Acrobat reader in order to access and print these forms. You can download one for free here.
What do I need to complete my return?
The most commonly asked question. Please download our 2011 Tax Return Checklist. This will give you a guide to what you need to bring/send when we complete your tax return.
For more information about what you can claim, computer & motor vehicle logs, education tax refund, superannuation and cash books for business, please see our General Information section.
Rental Property Information
What do I need for my Rental Property claim?
Our 2011 Rental Schedule shows what is required in the tax return and provides a common list of deductions. Please note that every rental property is different so if you have any specific questions about your individual rental property, please contact us.
I’ve purchased a new rental property, what do I need?
The New Rental Purchase document summarises the information that the accountant will need to review when completing the first tax return after purchase. It also provides you with additional information about what can and can’t be claimed. When used in conjunction with the Rental Property Schedule, it will cover all the required information needed by the ATO.
What if I have sold my Rental Property?
While each case may be slightly different, our Capital Gains Checklist will assist you in collating most of the necessary information.
I own a Rental Property overseas, what do I need to do?
Firstly, whether or not you have included this income in a foreign tax return, you still need to disclose the income in your Australian Tax Return. If you have paid tax in the foreign country, the ATO will generally give you a credit for this tax.
You will need to use the Rental Schedule to ensure you have covered the necessary income and expenses. You will also need to convert your expenditure to Australian Dollars. More information on exchange rates can be found on the ATOsite.
Don’t forget, the ATO provides a very comprehensive guide to rental properties, usually updated annually. The latest edition can be found on their website at the following link: http://www.ato.gov.au/content/00270214.htm.
General Information
What can I claim?
The ATO Occupation Guidelines provide a very general idea of what can or can’t be claimed for a range of occupations. Your situation is likely to vary so if you aren’t sure, please keep the receipt and ask our staff when we complete your tax return.
What do I need to bring?
The most commonly asked question. Please download our 2011 Tax Return Checklist; this will give you a guide to what you need to bring/send when we complete your tax return.
Education Tax Refund – Can I claim uniforms now?
Unfortunately you can’t make a claim in the 2011 tax return for uniforms. The first claim for uniforms will be in the 2012 tax return. This means you need to start keeping receipts for school uniforms from 1 July 2011. More information can be found in the ETR fact sheet.
I use the Computer and/or the Internet for work purposes – What does the ATO require?
Many people use their own computer or Internet access for work purposes. The ATO simply asks that you record your usage for one month to show the actual business percentage used. Our Computer & Internet Log will provide all the information you need.
Motor Vehicle Logbooks – What is required?
Essentially the logbook needs to be kept for a minimum period of 12 weeks, showing a fair representation of the annual travel. More information can be found in the Logbook Requirements.
Am I taxed on superannuation withdrawals?
Superannuation rules can be complex. Super – Accessing Super & Tax Consequences provides some basic and general information about how current superannuation withdrawals are taxed, however if you are considering withdrawing your super, please contact us to discuss your individual tax situation.
I have a small business – How do I record my expenses?
Small business tax is slightly different to individuals. The following cash book examples follow basic bookkeeping conventions and might assist in keeping the necessary records. We do suggest, however, if you currently have a small business or are thinking of starting one, you contact us for a free, no-obligation discussion on your particular needs.
Cash Book Expenses example – NO GST