Choosing the right PAYG instalment method

Understanding PAYG Instalment Methods

ATO Case Studies on Instalment Amount and Instalment Rate Methods

The ATO advises that Pay as you go (‘PAYG’) instalments are calculated using either the instalment amount method or the instalment rate method.

It recently provided the following two case studies to illustrate the two methods:

Case study 1: Kelly the DJ

Kelly is a DJ, working at festivals from November to January.  She chooses to use the instalment rate method, as it suits her seasonal business income.

Using this method means she needs to work out her business income each period.

It helps her manage cash flow because the amounts she pays will vary in line with her income.

When Kelly receives her BAS or instalment notice, she calculates the instalment based on her income for that period, multiplied by the rate provided.

Case study 2: David the plumber

David is a plumber with regular monthly business income, so he chooses the instalment amount method.  He won’t need to work out his business income each period to use this method.  David pays the instalment shown on his BAS.  The amount is calculated from information in his last tax return.

If Kelly or David think the instalments they pay will add up to be more or less than their tax liability for the year, they can vary their instalments.

Omnis Group offers affordable, reliable bookkeeping services that not only ensure your financial data is up-to-date but also that it’s correctly coded saving you money on your end-of-year financial returns.  Contact Omnis Group Business Accountants on 08 9380 3555 for a free, no-obligation quote.

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