ATO set to contact clients about tax returns

The letters will simply indicate that the taxpayers’ 2016 tax returns have been finalised.

The ATO said the letters aim to support clients who did “the right thing” by confirming they had completed routine information checks and satisfied tax obligations.

“If your clients don't receive a letter it doesn't mean something is wrong with their tax returns,” the ATO said.

“We have only selected a group of taxpayers to receive letters based on specific criteria.”

The ATO said it would not conduct further reviews or audits of clients’ tax returns, but clients are still required to keep their tax records.

While certainty letters were issued in 2015 as part of a trial, the initiative has continued for 2016 tax returns.

“The initial letters will issue to taxpayers who have linked the ATO to their myGov account,” the ATO said.

“You can use your client communication list on the portal to view which of your clients have received a letter.”  

The ATO said it will consult further with tax agents regarding how to send certainty letters to taxpayers who did not use myGov.