Introduction
If you’re after a refund from your tax return, don’t worry – you’re not alone! Plenty of Aussies are hoping for one, or at least need one. Sadly, the ATO process can be infuriating and confusing. Tax Stuff is here to clear the confusion: this post will walk you through refund basics, delays you may face, and how engaging a reliable accountant can help get your cash back into your pocket sooner.
Why Some Tax Refunds Are More Than 2 Weeks
Most online and accountant-prepared tax returns are processed within about two weeks, but if things go off track, you might be waiting up to 90 days for your refund. That’s often because of manual checking is required by the ATO or incomplete validations of data. The ATO will highlight errors and suspicious deductions in returns, or where your return has to be balanced because of outstanding debts, pre-fill mismatches, or complex income sources.
If your refund is delayed, keep monitoring your myGov or ATO app for status messages like “In progress,” “Balancing,” or “Awaiting income info.”
3 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Refund (And Simplify the Process)
1. Be Prepared – Keep Records:
Save receipts and records of work expenses (uniforms, equipment, home office), bank interest, charitable donation receipts, and logbooks. Maintaining records reduces audit risk and ensures you claim what you’re entitled to.
2. Time It Right:
Avoid being tempted to lodge on 1 July. Pre-filled data from financial institutions and employers might continue to roll in after you have lodged. Lodging from mid-July onwards avoids mistakes and additional processing.
3. Lodge Electronically, Early, and Accurately:
Use myTax or a registered tax agent to lodge your tax return so the ATO processes your return faster. Ensure your bank details and income information are accurate to avoid delays.
Tax Refund Timeline Explained: What to Expect
Here’s the typical journey of your ATO tax return:
| Stage | What Happens |
| Processing | ATO checks your return against employer/bank data—usually within 14 days. |
| Balancing Account | Final calculation of refund or debt. Can be quick but may stretch longer if third-party data doesn’t match. |
| Issued | You receive your Notice of Assessment and, if eligible, your refund is processed into your nominated account. |
If your refund is taking longer-than-expected, this may be due to unmatched data, unresolved ATO debts, or missing/inaccurate information. Always check your Retour status and respond quickly to ATO requests.
DIY vs. Accountant-Prepared Returns: A Side-by-Side
DIY using myTax:
- Free and accessible
- Risk of missing deductions
- No one pursuing ATO issues for you
With Tax Stuff (Accountant):
- Higher accuracy; professionally done
- MAXIMUM deductions and offsets you’d miss
- Personal help if ATO raises concerns with your return, plus
- Longer lodgement timeframes by agent status
Tips to Get Your Refund Faster
- Track the Status: Use myGov or the ATO app for live updates on your refund.
- Minimise Flags: Lodge correctly the first time to avoid mismatches or incomplete claims.
- Ask for Help: If your return takes longer than expected, contact us or the ATO to investigate.
- Keep Paying Attention: If flagged, respond quickly with additional documentation.
Final Thoughts
Getting a refund from your tax return doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By staying organised, lodging at the right time, and getting help from an accountant like Tax Stuff who understands the ATO process, you can both maximise your refund and reduce the wait time.
Terms & Conditions
Please note, this article does not take into consideration your specific objectives, financial situation or needs and is to be taken and read as general information only. Tax Stuff Pty Ltd does not accept liability for any use of this information. Before acting on any information contained in this article, please consult with a registered tax agent, taking into consideration your specific circumstances. If you do not have a registered tax agent and require more specific advice relating to your circumstances, please [Contact Us Here].
