They must be registered with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) which provides you with consumer protection because the TPB ensures they:
• meet and maintain the required standard or qualifications and experience
• comply with the Code of Professional Conduct.
When choosing an agent, you should discuss the service they can provide so you both know what to expect.
You can use the myDeductions tool in the ATO app to easily keep copies of your records and share these with your tax agent.
You are responsible for the tax records you provide your tax agent.
The myDeductions record-keeping tool allows both individuals and sole traders to keep track of:
• general expenses, such as gifts and donations made to a deductible gift recipient
• worked-related and sole-trader deductions (and business income).
You can either upload your records or email them to your tax agent.
Most registered tax agents have a special lodgement program and can lodge returns for their clients after the usual October 31 deadline.
The due date for your tax return will depend on your personal situation as well as when you engage your tax agent.
You should contact your tax agent for advice about your situation.
If you're using a tax agent for the first time, or using a different tax agent, you should contact them before October 31 to be part of their lodgement program due dates.