Yahoo Finance ATO offers ‘tailored’ tax help to thousands
The Australian Tax Office (ATO) will offer tax help to Indigenous Australians this tax season through a dedicated tax hotline.
The Indigenous Helpline received more than 47,000 calls last year, assistant commissioner Tim Loh said.
The Helpline provides tailored superannuation and tax assistance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
It provides support for people running businesses, those who have a second job or receive income from the gig economy, as well as those who received a scholarship or a government payment.
“Our staff are ready to make tax easier this tax time,” Loh said.
“We want Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to feel confident in managing their tax and super affairs.”
The ATO also said Indigenous Australians looking to work at the tax office should consider its Evergreen Indigenous Pathways employment program, which has seen more than 460 Indigenous Australians progress through their careers since 2014.
The Indigenous Helpline can be reached on 13 10 30, while all Australians earning less than $60,000 can access the ATO’s free Tax Help program.
“We know that for some, tax can seem overwhelming. The ATO is here to help, giving you the support you need to get it right this tax time,” Loh said.
“We’ve taken steps to continue this vital program, while adapting to the COVID-19 environment.
“In addition to attending a physical tax help centre, volunteers can now help you online or over the phone from the comfort of your own home.”
The ATO’s Tax Help program can be accessed by calling 13 28 61. Those hoping to use the service should have their myGov user ID, mobile phone, bank account details, tax file number, receipts and income statements on hand.
Australians have until 31 October to lodge their tax returns, unless they’re lodging with a tax agent or accountant.
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