Aussies encouraged to start lodging their tax returns

The Australian Tax Office is advising taxpayers with simple affairs to lodge their tax return for the past financial year, after previously telling them to hold off.

Millions of pieces of information from banks, employers, government agencies and private health insurers have been pre-filled so those with simple affairs are ready to go.

The details just needs to be checked to make sure they're correct, the tax office's assistant commissioner Robert Thomson said.

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Taxpayers should also check their personal and bank details are up to date and include accessible income before lodging.

Anyone planning to claim deductions are reminded to have all the right records and double-check their expenses as the rules for what can be claimed can change.

"In most cases, a bank or credit card statement (on its own) isn't enough evidence to support a work-related deduction claim – you'll need your receipts," Thomson said.

"No proof, no deduction."

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The tax office stressed that the claimant is responsible for all the information provided in their return, even if they use a tax agent.

Australians have until October 31 to lodge their taxes if they are doing it themselves and may have a little more time if they are using a registered agent.

"Most taxpayers will have their tax returns finalised within two weeks. This process can't be sped up, even if you call us," Thomson said.

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