Some of the things in brief you really do not want to read about but probably should.
DHS moves payment summaries online
People who receive Australian Government payments, pensions and allowances should be aware that the Department of Human Services (DHS) will not automatically issue paper or electronic copies of payment summaries for the year ended 30 June 2013. We have been advised that DHS will notify those people affected directly.
If you fall into the above category and would like a paper or electronic copy of your payment summary, you will need to contact DHS and request a copy.
Changes to private health insurance rebate and Medicare levy surcharge
Be sure to bring along your 2013 annual tax statement from your private Health Insurance Company so that we can make sure you are receiving your correct entitlement. This year every adult covered by the policy will receive a statement; therefore we ask that you bring in the annual tax statement for each person we will be preparing an income tax return for. Providing this statement will also help us assess and calculate the correct amount of Medicare levy surcharge applicable.
For more information about the changes to private health insurance rebate and Medicare levy surcharge please follow the link: http://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Income-and-deductions/In-detail/Offsets-you-can-claim/Private-health-insurance-and-Medicare-levy-surcharge-changes/Changes-to-private-health-insurance-rebate-and-Medicare-levy-surcharge/
ATO - Bank account details required for refunds
From 1 July 2013, the ATO requires you to nominate an Australian bank account when a refund is expected on your income tax return. Please note that if a refund is due and the financial institution details section is left blank, an error message will display and we will be unable to finalise lodgement of your income tax return. Once your income tax return has been processed the funds with be directly deposited to your nominated account. Electronic funds transfer (EFT) is the fastest, most-secure way for you to receive your refund.
Please remember when you come and see us to have your income tax return prepared for 2013, bring along your bank account information (including BSB, account number and account name) together with the usual paperwork like payment summaries, receipts, logbooks and statements.