We missed last month’s newsletter. Things have been busy! We’ve now had four consecutive months of record lodgements, and just when I thought things might slow down, you’ve proven me wrong. Great work! It’s fantastic to see you all doing so well.
On the tech front, Xero is rolling out some exciting updates. They’re combining all their tax tools into one place - the new Partner Hub inside Xero HQ. Plus, more features are coming for JAX and auto bank reconciliations, which should make life a little easier.
We’ve had a few requests recently for accountants’ letters, especially from new clients. Because these clients don’t have an existing history with us, we can’t simply sign off without following a proper process.
Here is the process:
The Fee we charge is $300 + GST and must be paid before we commence. You can add your margin on top.
The client must be onboarded (letter of engagement, added to the portal)
The tax agent only can sign the letter
We will not guarantee income, solvency etc. We will state the financial position only.
This process protects both you and us, and ensures we’re compliant while still meeting client needs.
Please ensure that every client signs a new letter of engagement this year. These must include my signature as the supervising tax agent.
You’re welcome to add yourself as a co-signatory if you wish, but my signature must always be included.
Why? Because this is a compliance requirement under the TPB. Having the correct signatures ensures the engagement is valid, protects both you and the client, and keeps us covered if the ATO or TPB ever review our files.
Turn Around Times
Improving Turnaround times
Some of you have mentioned that tax return approvals can feel slow. In most cases, the delay isn’t the review itself, it’s because the workpapers aren’t complete when they arrive. If the information isn’t clear or something’s missing, it naturally takes longer to review and creates unnecessary back-and-forth.
Here’s how you can speed things up:
One period, one workpaper: Keep each BAS or tax period in its own workpaper. Mixing periods creates confusion and slows everything down.
Attach all supporting docs: Bank statements, receipts, schedules, if it backs up a number, include it. Don’t leave us guessing.
Use review points: If you get stuck, flag it with a review point instead of leaving it blank. That way we know exactly what you’ve already checked and where you need help.
Doing these three things will cut down on back-and-forth, and you’ll see your returns turned around much faster.
Xero Certification
Xero Certification
Not everyone has completed their Xero certification or provided proof yet. I’ve asked nicely, but now I have to put on my teacher hat: no tax returns will be reviewed until your certification is completed.
Why? Because it’s a non-negotiable requirement. Being Xero certified proves you know your way around the software and ensures we can trust the quality of the work you prepare.
A heads-up: Xero is releasing a new certification on 1 October. If you complete it before then, it will only take a few hours. If you leave it until after, it will take up to 7 hours to reach Level 2.
Here’s what’s changing:
Level 1: Xero Certified Associate (1–2 hours)
Level 2: Xero Certified Professional (4–5 hours)
We’re seeing more and more groups coming onboard. Sometimes this is as simple as a company and an individual. Other times it’s multiple companies, trusts, and individuals all linked together.
With groups, it’s important to prepare all the returns at the same time. Why? Because there are interactions between the entities and people, such as:
Div7a loans and UPE's
Dividends
Trust distributions
We don’t need to lodge everything at the same time, but we do need to prepare the returns together to make sure everything lines up and remains compliant.
Looking ahead, as you start moving into advice, you’ll need to understand these group interactions to create effective tax plans.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out.
Reminders
Reminders
August 2025 IAs is due by the 21st of September
October IAs is due by the 21st of November
September 2025 BAS is due by the 25th of November
Those clients with late lodgements are due for lodgement by the 1st of October
Don't forget to join our facebook group
Wrapping Up
That’s a fair bit to take in this month: accountants’ letters, workpapers, Xero certification, groups, and letters of engagement. None of it’s rocket science, but all of it keeps the wheels turning smoothly.
The short version: get certified, keep your workpapers tight, and don’t skip the compliance steps. Do that and you’ll make life easier for yourself and me.
As always, if you get stuck, don’t go quiet — drop a review point, reach out, or fire up the chatbot.
