Starting a business
Starting a business When you start a business, there are tax and super responsibilities you need to be aware of, including: the tax implications of
Starting a business When you start a business, there are tax and super responsibilities you need to be aware of, including: the tax implications of
The difference between an employee and independent contractor is based on many different factors. No single factor determines whether a person is an employee or
A business plan is a documented set of business goals, objectives, target market information and financial forecasts that you are aiming to achieve over a
A marketing plan is a comprehensive document or blueprint that outlines the advertising and marketing efforts for the coming year. It describes business activities involved
What is superannuation? Superannuation in Australia are the arrangements put in place by the Government of Australia to encourage people in Australia to accumulate funds
What are they? A Medicare levy is the progressive income tax levy which partly finances Medicare, Australia’s national healthcare scheme. Taxpayers pay the Medicare levy
What is a Personal Services Income? You earn PSI when more than 50% of the income you receive from a contract is for your skills,
What is Fuel Tax Credits? Fuel tax credits provide businesses with a credit for the fuel tax (excise or customs duty) that’s included in the
It is quite common for people to forget the things they need when paying taxes. Managing all the documents and files before the Tax Day
What Is a PAYG Variation? A s221D PAYG Variation is used to vary or reduce the amount of tax withheld from your wages/salary. This application
How long do I need to keep tax records? Keep records for 5 years from the date you filed your original return or 5 years
Most start-ups businesses fail to sustain for a long time. One reason for those businesses to perish is not giving accountancy the importance that it
What is a fringe benefits tax? The fringe benefits tax is a tax applied within the Australian tax system by the Australian Taxation Office. The
Set up steps and costs A sole trader is a simple business structure to set up as there aren’t many legal or tax obligations. It’s
What is a business activity statement? If you are a business registered for GST you need to lodge a business activity statement (BAS). Your BAS
What is a Voluntary Agreement? This is an agreement between a contractor (payee) and a payer to introduce the payee into the PAYG withholding system.
It has all been repeated to us – pay off your debt, mainly your mortgage that is not deductible! However, the Government is continuously changing
Salary sacrifice is an arrangement with your employer providing benefits from your pre-tax income which results in adjustments to your future take home salary. This
‘Consider the age you want to retire, consider how much you want to live off each year and if you are still working consider how
Business Tax Tips Paying tax is not as simple as it seems- most small business owners overpay taxes, as they are not tax experts. There
Being in the medical industry, it is important to structure yourself in an entity that best suits YOU. You need to consider income splitting options,
If you are retired or about to retire, ensure your assets are structured to make the most of government benefits. The right arrangements could boost
Most loans for investment properties have redraw facilities that allow you to withdraw funds available that are above the minimum repayments obligations. Don’t assume that
‘It is important to have a valid Will and to review it regularly to make sure it is still in line with your intentions’ Estate
A contractor will be an employee where: The individual is remunerated (either wholly or principally) for their personal labour and skills; the individual must perform
If you pay your contractors under a contract that is wholly or principally for labour, you have to pay super contributions for them. This is
Once Mahatma Gandhi said, “The future depends on what you do today”. We all understand that our actions have consequences, but most of us do
Managing accounting of a business is not an easy thing to do, especially if you are not an expert- it is recommended to get a
Leaving money or assets to a charity that is a tax deductible gift recipient, in your will can be more tax affective with good planning.
Managing financial information is crucial for businesses of any scale. Dealing with the financial situation of a business is very complex work. Thus, it requires
Businesses and individuals, whoever is an earning member of a countries economy, has to pay taxes. Taxes are a way by which a citizen contributes
Establishing a business requires a lot of time, effort and investment. There is another very important part which needs to be maintained, it is compliance.
There is a term often heard in the industry, though not said by all, that is ‘small businesses don’t need an accountant or accounting’. Such
For smooth operations of any business organisation or enterprise, there are many core activities that are done on a regular basis. These are the quintessential
In the world of accounting, tax and finance, there are many aspects that require business owners to be prepared and keep records of every transaction.
Most people spend the major parts of their lives working and earning a living, providing for their family, children and own self. The condition and
Accounting, taxes and finances can all become overwhelming with so many underlying meticulous processes. Business owners have to remain busy and spend most of their
ATO stands for the Australian Taxation Office and as the tax paying time of the year is coming near, scam related activity through phone and
An often overlooked factor that can contribute to boosting a business is the contribution of an Accounting Specialist (bookkeeper). As a business grows, the financial
For a long period of their lives, people save up and gradually build their superannuation fund. It’s a good and effective way to save up
Handling taxes can be a nightmare. Especially with all the clauses, conditions and calculations involved. It requires a lot of meticulous effort, careful inspection and
When we plan for our future, we dream about a lot of things to do, like travelling the world, buying a house, a car and
In recent days, there has been a proposal tabled that would overhaul how superannuation funds will work in Australia. This is something of a delicate
What are your terms of sale – shares or business? A critical negotiation point is what you are selling – whether you are selling the
Sole Trader No asset protection – potentially liable to the full extent of the business and private assets owned by the individual Partnership No asset
Individuals/Partnership of Individuals Subject to the non-commercial losses provisions with respect to business losses, individuals can apply the tax losses against their other income. Excess
Business Structures Major Drivers when choosing a structure Legal minimisation of tax, including reduced exposure to tax on any future capital gains. Loss utilisation Asset
Claiming work related deductions Car expenses When claiming work related motor vehicle deductions remember that you still need to be able to substantiate how you
Car expenses When claiming work related motor vehicle deductions remember that you still need to be able to substantiate how you worked out the number
Setting up a SMSF and comparing providers fees It is important when shopping around to find someone to look after the administration of your Self
Business Tax Tips Plant & Associates are a Queensland based accounting firm servicing clients predominantly in the Brisbane and Gold Coast areas. We are able
You may be able to claim deductions for work-related expenses you incurred while performing your job as an employee. You incur an expense in an
Article by National Tax & Accountants Association Ltd In a recent case, the Federal Court has agreed with the ATO that ‘ride-sourcing’ (such as Uber)
Article by National Tax & Accountants Association Ltd. An employee construction project manager/supervisor was denied deductions for overtime meal expenses, as he was not paid
Common misconceptions regarding claiming work related deductions Car expenses When claiming work related motor vehicle deductions remember that you still need to be able to
Probationary Employees and Reasons for Dismissal If an employee is dismissed within their probationary period, do I have to give them a reason? Short answer
Assisting your kids with their superannuation savings The government has placed annual contribution caps on superannuation. These caps limit contributions in later years, when people are
Do you provide ride-sharing services (e.g. Uber)? If so, then it is essential that you are correctly accounting for your income and GST obligations. The
From 1 January 2017 the tax rates relating to working holiday makers (including backpackers) on 417 and 462 visas have changed. From that date, the
Are you in the right business structure? When you start a business in Australia, there a number of structures that it can be set up
Tips to buying your first investment property Plant & Associates, Certified Practicing Accountants (CPA’s) at Beenleigh and the Gold Coast, help many would be investors
Gone are the days where we found ourselves bound to the desk and a particular PC at our workplace or business premises if we wanted
Australian residents who undertake paid work, are required by law to pay tax (dependent on their level of income). This compulsory tax the Government levies
A self managed superannuation fund (SMSF) is a private superannuation fund you manage yourself, that is regulated by the Australian Taxation Office. Members of the
Starting a new business? Why a business plan is essential Starting a new business venture can be an extremely exciting time and also one that
THE COMPELLING CASE FOR PURCHASING VERSUS LEASING by Peter Tewksbury Despite the lack of office rental growth in Brisbane in the last 8 years, the
Dodgy Tax Claims – Work Related Expenses and Rental Expenses ATO Targets Work-related Expenses and Rental Expenses The tax office have confirmed that they will
Tax Minimisation and savings Mortgage and Finance Broker Grant Robertson provides the following advice to Plant and Associates clients: Offset accounts and redraw facilities work
Superannuation pension phase – $1.6m transfer balance cap for retirement accounts From 1 July 2017, the Government has proposed to introduce a transfer balance cap
Changing accountants is simple! Many people stick with their old accountant, despite not being happy with them simply because they believe to change accountants is
Posted on July 17, 2012 by admin How important is it to get the right advice before buying a rental property? Getting the right advice
Posted on July 17, 2012 by admin In a previous article we wrote about Centrelink deeming income. In particular, the structure used to hold your
Posted on July 17, 2012 by admin Whether you still have a while to go until you retire, are considering retiring now, or you are
Posted on July 17, 2012 by admin Division 7A of the Income tax Assessment Act (ITAA36) It is common knowledge that where a private company
Posted on August 21, 2012 by admin Profit – not something every business has, so how can you get it and improve it? Raise your
Posted on August 21, 2012 by admin Tax Refunds – Accountants Beenleigh and Nerang (Plant and Associates) wish to protect their clients whilst ensuring they
Posted on August 21, 2012 by admin Plant and Associates Accountants Beenleigh and Nerang specialise in small business. They take the pain out of the
Posted on August 21, 2012 by admin The refund option for excess superannuation concessional contributions up to $10,000 is now law following Royal Assent to
SMSF – insurance The SIS Act changed to require, for the 2012-2013 financial year and beyond, that: 1. trustees of self managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) consider insurance
Crunching the numbers can really add up, Article by Adam Kennedy When doing a budget it pays to know what matters most to you
Super versus mortgage: And the winner is… Article by Adam Kennedy The pros and cons of using spare income to pay more off your mortgage
Make sure you aren’t missing out! article by Tracey Roberts Financial Planner Are you missing out on valuable Centrelink benefits because your assets aren’t correctly
For many you will not even be considering whether or not you can receive the age pension as it may still be a few years
To be a Director or Not to Be ? That is the Question – by Will Hawney – Queensland Administration Services It was not that
A Good Marketing Plan and Why Your Business Needs One – article by Susan Hutson You can be an online entity operating under a “one
I have set out below some pertinent points in relation to Partnership Protection: I believe that your business venture is a partnership. The impact of
Plant and Associates Accountants Beenleigh and Nerang specialise in property investments. Cash flow properties: These are properties with a low capital growth profile of 4–6%
Advertising for tenants This is a claimable expense if it is strictly advertising for tenants and your property is available for rent. These costs include:
Rob Farmer outlines the upsides and downsides of managing your own property as well as insider tips on how to make it work… Let’s face
Myth 1. I have enough insurance inside my super Unlikely. Remember that the minimum level of cover provided through your super fund is set with
Never ‘back-date’ documents Only claim what you know is a genuine tax deduction Declare all of your income Don’t estimate your deductions, and always double-check
The key asset for most people is the family home. Asset protection is for anyone at high risk, not just high wealth individuals. So who
1. Franked dividends One of the great benefits of investing in stocks listed on the Australian market is the franking credit system – providing shareholders
1. When buying business insurance is it best to work with a broker representing various carriers or should I go direct to insurance companies? 2.
Believe it or not, there are times when taking an overseas holiday, upgrading your family home, buying a holiday home or perhaps swapping your Holden
Issue The issue is whether a deduction for interest expenses incurred in respect of funds borrowed for use in a business or investment activity remain
Business name Do I need to register a business name? If you are using your own name – your given name(s) and/or initial(s) followed by
Payroll tax is a state tax calculated on wages paid, or payable, by employers and applies in all Australian states and territories. For payroll tax
Fringe benefits tax is a tax paid on certain benefits you provide to your employees or your employees’ associates. FBT year runs from 1 April to
How tax is withheld if you are paid by two or more payers at the same time. For example: You work four days a
““It can be a big hesitant step to change accountants after using the same one for a few years but we are so glad we did, wished we had of known about Plant & Associates sooner!” – January 29, 2014
Bioseptic West Pty Ltd““Until 2010, I had used three other accounting services over the previous 35 years in business and I have never before had the level of personalised service professional advice and constant support and follow up from Sharon and Cathie . They are an absolute delight to be associated with. Keep up the great service girls” – January 24, 2014
John and Jo Mediprac Medical Group““I have been using Plant and Associates for some years now. Sharon and her team have always provided me with friendly, professional services that have targeted my business and personal needs. Advise and assistance has always been on timely and on point. It is my belief that my success to date both personal and business wise, is to a very large part attributable to the professional services, guidance, advice and assistance provided by Plant and Associates.” – January 27, 2014
Paul G Fitch Principal / Director Fitch Legal Group““I have been very happy with Sharon & Cathie, they have been very helpful” – January 27, 2014
Greg Murgatroyd Beachwood Constructions““Efficient, prompt, detailed and meticulous. Sharon and her team have helped to redress some of our financial issues which has placed us back on track to trading in the black.” – January 24, 2014
Paul Rikirangi Best Relocations““I was very pleased with the service provided, and the understanding of my circumstances at such an emotional time for me. The preparation of the final Tax Return of a loved one can be quite a stressful thing to do. I was very thankful to Sharon Plant, who made it all so easy for me.” – January 26, 2014
Paula Matthews““Sharon, I have used your Companies services for over 23 Years and during this time I have been happy to recommend your company to many of my family and friends who are still with you today. The professionalism, along with the approachable and friendly manner in which your staff interact with clients are a credit to your companies image and helps make “TAX TIME” a pleasure rather than a burden. Many thanks for your assistance. Cheers.”
Doug Anderson““I have been using Plant and Associates for the past two years. I have found all the staff to be both friendly and efficient. Any requests are dealt with promptly and in a professional manner.” – January 28, 2014
Sandra Maddison““The team has always been very helpful to me especially during some of my stressful times when I wasn’t at my best and I would not hesitate in recommending them Thank you for all your help” – January 27, 2014
Wendy Sharrock““Harold & I have been sending our paperwork for our tax returns to you for many years now & have always had the confidence, that you care & do the best you can for us as clients. Best regards” – January 28, 2014
Zoe Green““I was recommended Plant and Associate over 2 years ago and decided to use them. I was so happy with them I went back and I will continue to use Plant and Associates as they do a great job.” – January 28, 2014
Clive Stephens““Plant and associates handle my yearly tax return and I always find the experience stress free, fast and professional. I would have no hesitation in recommending their services.” – January 27, 2014
Chris Tritton““Every year my husbands business ITR and my individual return are completed and emailed through within a couple of days from when I brought my work in. Cathie and the accountants are always friendly/welcoming, making our experience with Plant & Associates a pleasure” – January 24, 2014
Evette Cunial““Best taxation advice I have obtained in the last 30 years. (All others have attempted to rip me off)” – January 29, 2014
Brian Collins““I use to travel to meet the taxation agent, until found out i could just submit it via email. As a shift workers this system was beneficial.” – January 24, 2014
Sophia Gonzalez““I will continue to use Plant and Associates for my Tax as they are eager to offer assistance and clarify any issues with me.” – January 28, 2014
Petrea Sexton““chris and I are happy with the service we have had over the years, we haven’t had a lot of experience with investment properties and the staff have been patient and helpful and we thank them for that” – January 29, 2014
Nigel Hansen““Pleasant, efficient and knowledgeable staff. I will continue to utilise the services of this firm, as the manner of all staff has been continually supportive of my individual needs. I am very appreciative of the efforts that staff make to ensure tax time for an interstate client is so simple and straightforward. Many thanks!” – January 24, 2014
Annette Baker““Sharon Plant and Associates make tax return time easy to understand, without paying for hours of time we really don’t need, as we are both retired. All personnel at the firm are very pleasant to deal with.” – January 24, 2014
Graham and Gloria Allen““Sharon has provided quality advice and tax preparation to my wife and myself over many years in relation to our PAYE obligations, shares and rental houses. I have always been impressed by the level of service and advice that has been provided to me over the years. I would highly recommend Plant and Associates for tax advice and tax preparation.” – January 24, 2014
Brian Hansen““Plant and Associates offer very reasonably priced services, and always in a timely manner. I’m glad I found this accountant – I have saved heaps and they are very helpful. With P&A you know what you are getting – good value for money.” – January 27, 2014
Laura Johnston““We have used Plant & Associates for our taxation for many years now and have always found them to be accurate and efficient. Although we live in Toowoomba we have found it easy to manage our tax face to face, or by mail with Plant & Associates.” – January 29, 2014
Vanessa Nugent““Sharon Plant and her team provide an accurate, timely and efficient service. 10/10.” – January 25, 2014
Brian Cazzulino““I was working overseas at the time of my last tax assessment. I forwarded all documentation through secure email and can say the response I received was professional, competent and timely. Thanks for the great work team.” – January 25, 2014
Mark Gunningham““Your service is easy to use, i live overseas so the fact that i can email all of my documents and have my tax return done is a huge time saver and is very convenient for me.” – January 27, 2014
Gary Stewart““I couldn’t of survived without your help and assistance, you saved my business thanks” – January 27, 2014
Hayden White“‘ I have always found the service from your firm professional, friendly and no long delays in making an appointment to have my tax return done.” – January 27, 2014
Peter Thwaites““We are happy with service performance and costs. We find you accessible and easy to deal with.” – January 27, 2014
Vicky Themis-Meela VeeCee Hair Design““I am quite happy the way they file my tax return” – January 27, 2014
DR K Kumar““I have been with Plant and Associates for 3 years and i drive all the way from Brisbane to see them and i do so as i have full trust in them and always happy as Sharon always gives me good advice and Cathy at the front desk makes you feel very welcome and a fantastic staff. Thank you Girls and see you in June :-)” – January 24, 2014
Jean-lou““Great service and prompt” – January 27, 2014
Kylie and Andrew McKenize““Outstanding, prompt service” – January 27, 2014
Kristen Lennox““I get my personal tax done by you even though its only a basic report the staff are always very helpful. I could be interested in the retirement, superannuation and financial advice services that you hope to offer soon. I have been with you since early days of Barefoot Tax man and have found no reason to change. Thank you for your service.” – January 27, 2014
Mary Dawson““Sharon Plant is a sharp and intuitive business woman. She really understands her clients status and provides customised advice rather than a cookie cutter approach with unwarranted expense. Sharon really has an amazing grasp on business, taxation and financial planning. I’ve never met a woman so passionate about number crunching but glad there is someone like her you can have faith in. Well worth spending some time with her!” – May 25, 2011
Barbara Clifford Networking Coordinator Tall Trees““I have worked with Sharon Plant on several mutual clients and can thoroughly recommend her work. Feedback from clients has been really favourable, in that they are receiving a quality service for a very reasonable fee. Personally, I’ve been impressed by Sharon’s accounting knowledge and will admit that if I get a curly question, she is definitely one of the people I seek advice from. And of course, she is such a nice person, it’s always a sheer pleasure working with her. I have, and will continue, to refer work to Sharon with full confidence my valued bookkeeping clients will…
Donna Stone““Sharon Plant and her Team has assisted our clients in managing their Taxation and Accounting needs, providing expert advice and assistance. We have always found them friendly and their service is second to none.” – March 22, 2011
Matthew W. Brown Managing Director Josman Financial Group““Office Direct QLD based in Capalaba have used the services of Sharon Plant & her dynamic team over the last 2 years, We as small business owners are extremely happy with the professional service advice and help that we are given at all times. With prompt service Sharon goes the extra mile of explaining and giving extra attention to the small things with an excellent eye for detail which is a must within small business these days. We would recommend Sharon’s services to anybody who requires Professional service & advice whether it be for small or large business, Sharon always…
Renelle & Brad Tucker Owner Managers Office Direct QLD““I’ve known Sharon Plant and the team at Plant & Associates for the past couple of years. I use her for my own tax work (which was hassle free and no guilt trips over my husband’s messy accounts) and have no hesitation in recommending Sharon and her colleagues to my clients. We have no financial arrangement in place; I recommend because I believe that Plant & Associates are people of integrity, who are trust-worthy and honest, and will do a good job. I spoke to one of our mutual clients last week and asked her how she had found working…
Tracey Roberts Financial Planner““I have never before worked with an accountancy firm that has been so responsive as well as proactive to the benefit of the business and the owners. I have employed many accountants in the past who did not understand our business and now feel with Plant and Associates that we have landed on our feet. What a delight to work with someone who I can now relax with, knowing that we are in the hands of professionals with our business success to the forefront. Accuracy, up to the minute knowledge and a friendly manner makes this firm such a pleasure…
Janice Ellson Managing Director Elan Medical Supplies““An accountant that gives practical and professional advise and cares about her clients. The clients I have referred to her have sung her praises. A definite recommendation from our firm to hers.” – Will Hawney, Queensland Administration Services
Will Hawney Queensland Administration Services““Sharon Plant has a fantastic attitude towards business. She is easy to talk to, open minded, a good listener and passionate about helping business owners needs.”
Tim Stokes““Sharon Plant is a very professional accountant and I trust her integrity and honesty. She has demonstrated a high work ethic.”
Marty Watson““Great accountant”
Eduard Roux““I was referred to Sharon for accounting and MORE services, Sharon Plant & staff have performed beyond expectations and is a great source of reference for fellow business friends”
Steve Jemison““I have know Sharon Plant for the past 3 years and consider her not only an expert in her field but always to be curteous, ethical, understanding and trustworthy. These quality characters along with many others is the reason I refer all my clients to Sharon as I know they are in the safest of hands.”
Jason Savage““We are very thankful to Plant & Associates staff, specially to Angela Munoz who has demonstrated one more time an outstanding human quality, professional yet warm, dedicated and kind. We will definitely make our opinions reach out to others.”
Olga and Dan““Sharon Plant is very dynamic and personable with a deep understanding of SMEs. Her attentiveness and creative approach to business solutions makes Sharon a key member of any business network team and its success.”
Darren Hinge““Sharon Plant is a business accountant who will professionally and competently ensure her client’s compliance obligations are met,, accurately and on time, as all good accountants should do. What makes Sharon stand out from the crowd is her interest in business and the time she takes to know and understand her clients. I highly recommend Sharon’s services as a vital part of the small businesses management team.”
Peter Solly Managing Director PGAS Investments