If you’ve requested the ATO to waive General Interest Charge (GIC) on a tax debt recently, you may have noticed longer wait times.
The ATO Commissioner Rob Heferen confirmed this week that the ATO’s new approach to GIC remission has led to longer wait times, but says it’s the trade-off for more consistent and fair outcomes for all taxpayers.
What’s changed:
New website guidance and new GIC remission forms
A dedicated review team for remission requests over $2,500
Phone remission now limited to $2,500 – complex cases go to specialist officers
The Commissioner said: “Every taxpayer should be treated alike… decisions should be based on circumstances and merits, not on who happens to answer the phone.”
The ATO also warned it will not tolerate businesses using tax debts as working capital – if you have capacity to pay, pay.
If you have an ATO debt, talk to us BEFORE you request a remission. As your adviser, we can help structure the request and prioritise obligations.
General info only. This is not personal tax advice. Tax laws change. You should seek advice specific to your circumstances from a registered tax agent before acting.
