Does the Accountant File Your Tax Return for You?

Tax season can be stressful, especially if you’re juggling business operations or managing your family’s finances. A common question we hear is: “Does the accountant actually file the tax return for you?”

The short answer is—yes. At Choice Accountants, our CPA services in Tahmoor are designed to take the entire tax return process off your plate. From collecting your financial information and identifying deductions to preparing your return and submitting it to the ATO, we handle it all so you don’t have to.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through what an accountant actually does when it comes to tax return filing in Australia, and why it’s often the smartest choice for both individuals and businesses.

Do Accountants File Your Tax Return in Australia?

Yes. In Australia, registered tax agents, including CPAs (Certified Practising Accountants), are authorised to lodge tax returns on behalf of individuals, sole traders, and companies directly with the ATO (Australian Taxation Office).

At Choice Accountants, we are registered with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB), which means we can:

• Prepare and review your tax return
• Lodge your return with the ATO
• Deal with the ATO on your behalf
• Ensure you meet compliance obligations
• Help you maximise deductions and minimise tax

Explore our Tax Return Services

What an Accountant Does When Filing Your Tax Return

Here’s a breakdown of what we do when you choose Choice Accountants to file your tax return:

1. Initial Consultation and Document Collection

We meet with you to understand your situation, whether you’re a salaried employee, business owner, investor, or a retiree. We gather necessary documents including:

• Income statements (PAYG, rental, investments, etc.)
• Work-related deductions
• Receipts and invoices
• Bank interest summaries
• Private health insurance info

2. Review and Verify Information

We carefully verify your financial details and cross-check your information with ATO pre-fill data. This reduces the risk of errors or omissions, which can delay refunds or trigger audits.

3. Identify Deductions and Tax Offsets

Many people miss out on deductions they’re entitled to. We ensure that all eligible work-related, home office, vehicle, education, and investment-related deductions are included.

See Top Tax Deductions Australians Miss Out On.

4. Prepare and Lodge the Tax Return

Once reviewed and approved by you, we lodge your tax return directly to the ATO through our registered tax agent portal. You’ll receive a copy for your records and confirmation of lodgment.

5. ATO Correspondence and Follow-Up

Need to respond to ATO queries or track a delayed refund? We handle all correspondence with the ATO so you don’t have to.

6. Ongoing Tax Planning Advice

Our job doesn’t end once the return is lodged. We provide tailored advice on how to legally reduce your tax for the following year—helping you keep more of your income.

Benefits of Having an Accountant File Your Tax Return

• Maximise Your Refund
  We ensure no deduction or offset is missed—legally boosting your refund.
• Stay Compliant
  With tax laws constantly changing, it's easy to fall out of compliance. We stay updated so you don’t have to.
• Save Time and Effort
  Filing on your own can be time-consuming and confusing. With us, it’s quick, clear, and stress-free.
• Avoid Mistakes
  Simple errors can lead to ATO delays or audits. Our expert CPA team ensures accuracy.
• Expert Advice
  We don’t just file—we help you structure your income and expenses smarter for next year.

Who Should Use an Accountant to File Their Return?

You should consider using a CPA to file your return if:

• You’re self-employed or a sole trader
• You earn rental or investment income
• You have multiple income sources
• You’re claiming many deductions
• You run a business or have an ABN
• You simply want peace of mind

Case Example: Tax Refund Boosted by $1,800

A local teacher in Tahmoor was preparing to lodge her return using the ATO’s MyTax portal. She approached Choice Accountants for a second opinion. We discovered she was missing out on work-related expenses such as uniforms, home office costs, and professional subscriptions. After reviewing her return, we increased her refund by $1,800—money she would have left on the table if she had lodged it herself.

Can I Still Review My Return Before It’s Lodged?

Absolutely. We always send a draft copy of your return for review and approval before submission. We explain your tax result clearly and answer any questions you may have.

How Much Does It Cost to File Through an Accountant?

A local teacher in Tahmoor was preparing to lodge her return using the ATO’s MyTax portal. She approached Choice Accountants for a second opinion. We discovered she was missing out on work-related expenses such as uniforms, home office costs, and professional subscriptions. After reviewing her return, we increased her refund by $1,800—money she would have left on the table if she had lodged it herself.

Conclusion

So, does an accountant file your tax return for you?
Yes—and much more.

At Choice Accountants, we don’t just prepare and lodge your return. We offer a full-service experience—from compliance and deduction optimisation to year-round tax planning and ATO support.

Whether you’re filing as an individual or business, our CPA services in Tahmoor ensure your return is accurate, timely, and working in your best interest.

Final Thoughts

Having an accountant file your tax return is more than just a convenience—it’s a smart financial decision. With expert knowledge, access to the latest tax laws, and a proactive approach to deductions and compliance, a qualified CPA can help you get the best possible result from your return.

Whether you’re an individual with a straightforward income or a business owner with complex finances, working with a trusted accountant like Choice Accountants ensures accuracy, peace of mind, and potentially a bigger refund.
Phone: +61 2 8717 2200
Email: enquiry@choice.accountants