Tax debt becomes harder when the balance is unclear, lodgments are outstanding or a payment plan is based on unrealistic cash flow.
We help reconcile the account and assess payment, hardship, collection and dispute issues that may need attention together.
How we can help
Reconcile the full ATO debt
List liabilities by type and period and separate tax, penalties, GIC and disputed amounts.
- Check payment history.
- Account for offsets.
- Identify overdue lodgments.
Assess a sustainable payment plan
Base proposed instalments on actual capacity while allowing for new obligations.
- Calculate an upfront amount.
- Protect current tax payments.
- Remember GIC generally continues.
Understand collection risk
The ATO can move to firmer action where debt is ignored or arrangements repeatedly fail.
- Credits may be offset.
- Garnishee or legal action may follow.
- Company debt may create director risk.
Separate debt from tax disputes
A disputed assessment and its collection position may need to be managed in parallel.
- Separate accepted amounts.
- Protect objection deadlines.
- Keep records of agreements.
A clear process from consultation to action
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1
Initial consultation
We discuss the account, notices, payment history, lodgments and cash flow during the paid consultation.
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2
Assess cash flow
If further work is engaged, we establish what can be paid now and maintained over time.
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3
Choose the pathway
Options may include payment, a plan, hardship support or a separate objection or correction.
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4
Manage the ATO position
The agreed approach is implemented while current obligations and account changes are monitored.
What to have ready
- Current ATO statement of account.
- Payment-plan history.
- Outstanding lodgments.
- Recent cash-flow figures.
- Any disputed assessment notices.
- Records of payments and ATO contact.
ATO Payment Plans and What Happens If You Do Not Pay
ATO guidance explains payment by instalments, continuing GIC and firmer action where debt is not addressed.
Read the guideFrequently asked questions
Can I pay by instalments?
Eligible taxpayers may be able to use an agreed payment plan. Eligibility and terms are not automatic.
Does GIC stop during a plan?
No. GIC generally continues on the unpaid balance.
What if the debt is ignored?
The ATO may offset credits, issue garnishee notices, take legal action or use other firmer measures.
Is hardship relief available?
Some individuals in serious hardship may apply for release from certain liabilities, subject to eligibility and evidence.
What if the assessment is wrong?
Check correction, amendment, objection or other review rights while also managing collection.