Tax agent offers online check before you lodge

Stephen Withers
Friday, 03 July 2009 09:53

Business IT - Technology

Want someone to check your tax return but don't have time to visit an agent? H&R Block thinks it has the answer.

A growing number of taxpayers are using the Australian Taxation Office's e-tax online tax return preparation facility.

But not everyone's comfortable doing their own return, so many people use an accountant or tax agent to handle the process.

Now there's a middle course. H&R Block - a familiar name thanks to its network of more than 350 offices around Australia - now offers a new  online service.

Clients can prepare their tax returns online and have it checked by an H&R Block accountant before it is lodged with the ATO. This service costs a flat $A49.

"The online tax program is occupational-based, which takes people through the work related expenses that are common to their occupation and helps ensure they receive all they are entitled to," said Frank Brass, regional director at H&R Block.

The company also has an established service involving an online interview (much like consulting an H&R Block tax agent without visiting the office), after which the company handles the preparation and lodgement. Prices start at $A110.