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Australians could potentially be short-changing themselves at tax time through the use of the ATO’s MyTax portal, according to H&R Block Australia.
Taxpayers must tune in to their tax entitlements, says H&R Block
02 June 2025
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8 minute read
New research from H&R Block Australia has revealed the “go-to tax tool” could be costing Australians more than they realise, as 66 per cent of MyTax returns contain missed claims worth over $500.
Mark Chapman, H&R Block director of tax communications, said as cost-of-living pressures continued to bite, lodging via the ATO’s MyTax portal could be causing Australians to “short-change” themselves.
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Despite MyTax often being praised for their simplicity, the research found the 66 per cent of self-lodged returns reviewed by a tax professional contained missed deductions with an average value of $525.50.
The issue was revealed to be more prominent among younger Australians as they were the most likely to use MyTax with confidence.
Chapman said only 18 per cent of respondents felt “very confident” in knowing what they could claim, while nearly 48 per cent weren’t sure when tax laws changed.
“In a year where every dollar counts, that’s money Australians can’t afford to leave behind. MyTax is designed to be simple, but that’s exactly where it falls short,” he said.
“It’s a one-size-fits-all tool that doesn’t ask the kind of follow-up questions a tax agent would, and that’s where people miss out.”
It was also found that one in three Australians only realised they had missed deductions after lodging, meaning the entitlements may never be recovered.
Only 32 per cent of MyTax users said they believed the tool delivered the maximum refund they were entitled to.
Chapman warned taxpayers with a side hustle to be extra careful when lodging, as their potential entitlements were not clearly communicated by the Tax Office.
“If you’ve started a side hustle, invested in shares, bought property, or even just worked from home – your return is no longer simple,” he said.
“The ATO doesn’t tell you what you’re entitled to claim – that’s up to you. And in a year where budgets are stretched, getting it right can make a real difference. It’s time Australians rethink the idea that fast equals effective when it comes to tax.”
Chapman added that while the end of the financial year loomed, it could be worthwhile seeking professional advice and guidance.
“It’s understandable that people want a fast and easy solution, but relying solely on pre-filled data through MyTax can lead to overlooked deductions.”
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