We always need to be on the lookout for scams…but this time of the year, also known as “tax time”, usually sees an increase in the number of scams around – so it’s extremely important that everyone takes care!

The reputation of the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is not so great in the eyes of many…but I’ve always found them to be generally reasonable to deal with, and I know there are some things they would never do…such as:

• The ATO will never cold call you about a tax debt. If you have a tax debt you will receive a letter or SMS to remind you that a payment is due, so that if/when they do phone you, you’ll be prepared.
• The ATO will never threaten jail or arrest – they simply can’t!

If you do receive a call from the ATO, and you’re unsure of its legitimacy, you are well within your rights to ask for the caller’s name so you can call them back through the ATO switchboard on 13 28 69.

For more information on scams, please visit Scamwatch.

Regards