ATO warns NFPs about 'common oversights' with self-review returns

In a recent update, the ATO outlined steps NFPs can take to avoid issues when completing their return.

The Tax Office said that many NFPs contact the ATO for help correcting outdated details in the Australian Business Register, which can then prevent access to Online services for business or block phone authorisation.

"If your NFP's details have changed, you must notify us within 28 days of the change. If you're a newly appointed associate and the prior associate is unknown, you will need to complete the Change of registration details (NAT 2943) form," it said.

"Be sure to complete Section F and attach evidence of the appointment with the form. You will also be able to update your NFPs postal and email addresses, business name, and phone numbers using this form."

For NFPs having trouble setting up a myID and RAM, the ATO said these organisations can use the ATO's automated self-help phone service to lodge the NFP self-review return.

When lodging by phone, the ATO said NFPs should prepare in advance and have their organisation's ABN and reference number ready, review the questions beforehand and be ready for authorisation checks.

"If you're unable to respond or answer incorrectly three times, your call will automatically disconnect," the ATO said.

"If your NFPs associate has set up access to Online services for business, you’ll be able to lodge online."

For NFPs that have not yet set up access but intend to lodge online, the ATO said their associate will need to set up their myID and link their myID to the NFP’s ABN in Relationship Authorisation Manager.

The ATO said that before lodging the return, NFPs should also review their governing documents to ensure they have appropriate clauses, and follow the ATO's NFP self-review return question guide to preview the questions and prepare their answers in advance.