The National Tax and Accountants Association Ltd

The ATO has advised that, if clients have been affected by the recent cyclones, it has a number of support options available to help them, including fast tracking refunds, and giving them more time to pay their tax debts.

For people who have a business or residential address in the affected postcodes, the ATO has automatically fast tracked refunds, and deferred the lodgment and payment datesdue in February and March to 28 April 2015 (except for large pay as you go withholders).

This means clients do not have to apply for a deferral or to have their refund fast tracked – it has automatically been done for them.

People outside of the affected postcodes who have been impacted and need tax assistance can still contact the ATO on 1800 806 218 and the ATO will make arrangements on a case by-case basis.

For more information: call the ATO disaster assistance phoneline on 1800 806 218.