ATO mum on portal decommissioning date as Online services for business launches

Some of the new features include allowing owners to switch between ABNs with a single login, lodge taxable payment annual reports and create payment plans.

Businesses will also be able to view and print tax returns and income tax history, manage their tax registration details and view Single Touch Payroll reports.

The ATO said that while feedback during its testing phase had allowed it to make incremental improvements to the service, making it more user-friendly and intuitive, it acknowledged that the change in systems might cause some issues for businesses.

“We understand this year has, and continues to be, challenging for many clients,” an ATO spokesperson said.

“We know businesses have a lot on their plate, so we will maintain the electronic superannuation tool (eSAT) and Business Portal for a transition period over the coming months to help users adjust to the new service. We are here to support businesses through this transition.”

The Tax Office has also sought to assure practitioners that the new online service will not replace the need for their services, with the new platform merely allowing businesses to interact with the ATO in a more contemporary way.

“Online services for business will provide core digital services for clients,” the spokesperson said. “It is not a replacement for the professional advisory services provided by tax professionals.”