ATO targeting SMSFs

ATO targeting SMSFs that fail to lodge annual returns

The ATO has observed an increase in the number of SMSFs that fail to lodge their first annual return and become what the ATO refers to as ‘NEVER’ lodgers.

The ATO is particularly concerned where there has been a roll-over into these SMSFs, as this is a strong indicator that illegal early release of superannuation benefits may have occurred.

A minority of SMSF trustees continue to ignore ATO reminders about lodging annual returns.  This group is now being targeted with a compliance campaign the ATO calls ‘3 strikes and you’re out’.

Under this campaign, the ATO will take the following action:

  1. The ATO’s compliance action starts with a blue letter, that encourages trustees to take immediate action and lodge their return and provides a pathway for those in need of support.
  2. If the ATO does not receive a response to the blue letter, it will issue an amber letter warning the trustees of the consequences of failing to lodge their return.
  3. If the ATO still does not receive a response, it will issue a final warning, a red letter advising the ATO is commencing the disqualification process and considering other enforcement action.

Last year the ATO issued red letters to trustees who had never lodged their first annual return and has now commenced disqualifying the 95 trustees that did not respond.

Superannuation is one of those areas that can be compared to a cart on a rollercoaster. Its performance is constantly affected by economic climate and shifting legislation that alter the benefits individuals and businesses can gain from superannuation funds. There are a lot of advantages available to you and your business and we are here to assist you in finding out what those are. Contact the Omnis Group team in West Perth on 08 9380 3555 or read more here »

Related reading

https://www.omnisgroup.com.au/business-accounting-taxation/super-guarantee-changes-from-july/

Justin Flavel

Managing Director

Justin’s experience spans across 20 years in accounting, financial analysis and general business practice.

Although born and bred on the land, Justin’s interest was more in spreadsheets, ledgers, and finance which led him to attend university. In 1992, Justin graduated with a Bachelor of Business majoring in Accounting and Finance. As well as qualifying as a CPA member and becoming a Fellow of the Taxation Institute of Australia, he began gaining practical experience in small and mid-tier accounting practices.

During the late 90s, Justin decided to expand his horizons and travel through Europe. It was during this time that he seized the opportunity to expand his knowledge on the workings of large organisations by taking on roles in multinational corporations.

Today, Justin’s passion is in facilitating businesses to grow and evolve. His focus is on acting in the role of business mentor to help clients develop the full potential of their businesses. He joins clients on their unique journey, and provides the tools and knowledge they need along the way to make the right decisions.

Justin’s aim for his clients parallels his own philosophy and personal journey—focusing on his own career growth and business success while maintaining balance in his life with his wife and three daughters.

Omnis Group Managing Director - Justin Flavel