When the ATO sends a letter—whether it's a compliance check, audit notice, or information request—it requires careful handling. We manage all ATO correspondence, interpret what's being asked, coordinate responses, and advocate on your behalf. This protects you from unintended admissions, missed deadlines, and unnecessary tax exposure.
The Challenge
You received an ATO letter and aren't sure what they're asking for or how to respond
You're worried about admitting errors or sending the wrong documents
You missed a deadline on an ATO notice and don't know what happens next
The ATO is auditing you and you're unsure what information to provide and what to withhold
The ATO has made an assessment you disagree with and you don't know how to object
What's Included
All ATO letters tracked with dates received, deadlines, and response status. Nothing gets missed or overlooked.
Complete response to ATO queries with supporting documentation, workpapers, and written explanations. Submitted before deadline.
If the ATO conducts an audit visit, we coordinate logistics, prepare your team, and manage the information provided during the audit.
If the ATO makes an assessment you disagree with, we review the calculation, prepare an objection statement, and advocate your position.
If errors are identified in prior years, we calculate exposure, determine if voluntary disclosure is strategic, and prepare the ATO submission.
Why It Matters
Most SME owners dread ATO correspondence. The letters are technical, the stakes feel high, and a wrong move can trigger bigger problems. We demystify ATO queries and handle them professionally. When the ATO asks for documents, we gather them correctly and present them with context so the ATO understands your position. When they propose adjustments, we calculate the impact, determine whether the adjustment is correct, and advise whether to accept or dispute it. For compliance checks (randomised audits), we coordinate the process and ensure only relevant information is provided—not your entire filing cabinet. For targeted audits on specific issues (cash handling, deductions, GST treatment), we develop a coherent response with supporting evidence. If you've made an error, we assess whether voluntary disclosure before the ATO finds it is a better approach than waiting for them to identify it.
Prompt response to all ATO notices and compliance checks
Expert interpretation of ATO queries and requirements
Coordinated document gathering and submission
Protection of your legal rights during audits
Detailed commentary explaining ATO findings
Advocacy support to minimize tax liability and penalties
The Process
ATO correspondence received and logged with deadline tracking
Initial assessment of query scope, supporting documents needed, and risk areas
Internal documents gathered, reviewed for compliance, and organized for response
Response prepared with detailed explanations and supporting workpapers
Response submitted to ATO before deadline with copies retained
Follow-up and ongoing correspondence managed until resolution
Best For
Business owners who are anxious about ATO interaction and want expert advocacy
Businesses being audited or facing ATO compliance checks
Owners of cash businesses or those with complex deduction areas
Growing businesses that need systematic ATO correspondence management
Complementary Services
BAS preparation from fully reconciled, current financial data ensures every figure is verifiable, defensible, and audit-ready. We calculate GST, PAYG, and other obligations from your actual records, then provide the BAS ready for your review and lodgement.
GST reconciliation identifies discrepancies between what you've recorded and what the ATO expects before you lodge your BAS. We reconcile your GST ledger monthly, investigate timing differences, and flag adjustments needed so you never lodge a BAS with errors. This proactive approach prevents costly amendments and ATO inquiries.
Financial strategy translates business vision into financial reality. We develop 3-5 year financial plans aligned with your growth ambitions, identify capital requirements, plan for profitability milestones, and ensure financial decisions support strategic goals. This bridges the gap between business strategy and financial execution.
FAQ
We assess what you have, what's missing, and why. Sometimes documents aren't required if you have contemporaneous business records. If documents are genuinely lost, we help you explain and provide alternative evidence.
Yes, through assessment. We review any proposed changes the ATO suggests, calculate the impact, and determine whether to accept or object. We explain the basis for our position.
Early disclosure often results in a better outcome. We calculate the impact, determine whether voluntary disclosure is appropriate, and prepare the submission to minimize penalties.
Typically 14-21 days from the ATO letter. We create a response timeline immediately so nothing is missed. If more time is needed, we request an extension before the deadline.
Yes. We evaluate whether objection is worthwhile, prepare the objection statement, and present the case to the ATO. If objection is unsuccessful, we assess options for further review.
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Get in touch
We can help you implement ato correspondence management and start seeing results. Book a consultation to discuss your specific needs and explore how this service can transform your business.