What is a Business Activity Statement (BAS)?

Navigating the maze of tax obligations is a crucial part of running an Australian business, and that’s where the Business Activity Statement (BAS) comes into play. This document is key to reporting various taxes to the ATO and reconciling tax credits, a process integral to both compliance and financial accuracy.

Business Activity Statement – Definition

So, what exactly is a Business Activity Statement? The BAS is a form submitted to the ATO that reports on a range of tax obligations including Goods and Services Tax (GST), Pay As You Go (PAYG) installments, PAYG withholding tax, and other taxes. For businesses registered for GST, the BAS is instrumental in informing the government about the tax collected from customers and ensuring the appropriate tax credits are claimed.

Accounting for all these transactions requires meticulous bookkeeping and a comprehensive understanding of financial events within your business. A Business Activity Statement is not just any document; it details the taxes collected and paid by your business. This information is then reconciled with the ATO to verify that your business is paying the right amount of tax.

Read also: How to get started with tax invoices

Lodging BAS Online – The efficient way forward

In step with the digital age, the ATO has made it straightforward for businesses to lodge their BAS online, which is the preferred and more efficient method. There are several ways to lodge online, including through the ATO’s Business Portal, via your accounting software if it is ATO compliant, or through the services of a registered BAS or tax agent.

Lodging online not only saves time but also reduces paper waste. Plus, it provides businesses with an instant acknowledgement of lodgment, which can be incredibly useful for your records.

Calculating Your BAS – Understanding the figures

Calculating your BAS hinges on precise accounting. Your accounting software or financial professional will calculate the amounts by considering your sales, purchases, wages, and other operational aspects that affect your tax contributions. For GST, calculations generally involve identifying the total sales subject to GST and the GST credits you’re entitled to for your business purchases. Other components like PAYG withholdings or installments are based on the income you pay to employees or expect to earn, respectively.

Understanding the details involved in the BAS can be tricky. It’s important to either know the tax rules well or get help from a tax professional to make sure everything is correct and follows the rules.

Read also: Business structures in Australia and taxes to be aware of

How to lodge your Business Activity Statement

The method you use to submit your BAS may differ based on the specific needs of your business. Your choice of lodgment can impact the lodgment process. Here are the general steps:

1. Ensure all your accounting records are up-to-date and reconciled.
2. Calculate the required figures for GST, PAYG installments, PAYG withholding, and other applicable taxes.
3. Complete the BAS form either electronically through your accounting platform or manually if paper filing.
4. Review the form thoroughly to ensure all information is accurate.
5. Submit your BAS to the ATO by the due date. Use the Business Portal, directly through your compliant accounting software, or through your tax or BAS agent.

Key dates: lodging your quarterly BAS

For those lodging quarterly, it’s imperative to be mindful of the due dates to avoid penalties. Here are the standard quarterly due dates for lodging and paying your BAS:

• Quarter 1 (July – September): due by 28 October
• Quarter 2 (October – December): due by 28 February
• Quarter 3 (January – March): due by 28 April
• Quarter 4 (April – June): due by 28 July

Note that if you use a registered agent, you may have different lodgment and payment due dates. Always verify with your agent or the ATO to ensure you’re meeting your specific deadlines.

Understanding and managing your BAS is an indispensable element of running a business in Australia. Submitting your BAS online is convenient and helps ensure its accuracy. A firm grasp on your BAS tasks ensures that your business stays on the right side of the ATO, steers clear of fines, and upholds a sound financial system.