6 questions to ask when finding a tax agent near you

A tax agent is a licensed professional who specialises in preparing and lodging tax returns on behalf of their clients. More often than not, a tax agent is also an accountant - simply a specialist in one area of accounting. However, not all accountants are able to fulfil the role of a tax agent - an accountant is a much broader role focusing on business advisory and financial compliance.​

At Beany, we are tax agents and accountants at the same time. ​

You’ll likely be provided with an End of Financial Year (EOFY) questionnaire, which is designed to give them the information they need to prepare your tax return. With Beany, we have designed a questionnaire that takes minutes - get in touch to find out more. ​

Only a tax agent is able to lodge on behalf of a client, and this requires a licence granted by the "Tax Practitioners Board". You'll also need to provide your tax agent with any relevant files, such as bank statements and receipts. Your tax agent may also recommend using cloud accounting software (we recommend Xero) to keep digital copies of your records.​

You’ll need to keep records for at least five years, as required by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Your tax agent will let you know what records you need to keep (and how to keep them). The ATO goes into more detail on keeping records here.​

Be sure the tax agent near you is the one for you. Tax agents provide tailored services to individuals and businesses - from small businesses, partnerships and companies, to trusts and freelancers and contractors. That being said, your tax agent should have experience working with clients in situations similar to yours.​

Ask your tax agent about the types of clients they typically work with - for example, do they work with self-employed individuals or small business owners? What industries are they experienced in? At Beany, we work with a wide range of clients, from freelancers to established businesses across a range of industries.​

A tax agent can help you minimise tax liability and maximise profits by providing expert advice. They can review your financial situation and recommend the most tax-efficient business structure. You’ll also receive advice on eligible deductions, as well as tailored strategies to reduce your tax liability.​

One of the primary reasons to work with a tax agent is to minimise your tax liability and maximise your profits. During the first consultation, ask your tax agent about strategies to reduce your tax liability. They can advise you on what business expenses you can claim as deductions - such as home office expenses, motor vehicle expenses, and other common expenses. ​

Read more: The benefits of hiring a tax agent​

In addition to the core tax-related services, tax agents may offer you additional services, such as:​

The additional services offered by tax agents may vary depending on the specific agent and their areas of expertise. If you’re looking for these services, be sure to check with your tax agent during your first consultation.​

At Beany, we offer a range of services, including bookkeeping, payroll, and business advice. Our pricing is transparent, with fixed fees over 12 months, meaning you’ll never get a surprise bill. We also offer add-ons to our , such as bookkeeping services, and a to help you get your business off the ground. You can find out more here.​

Tax agents can provide different levels of support depending on your needs. Some may offer ongoing support through regular consultations, while others may only provide assistance as needed - for example, when it’s time to file a tax return. If you find yourself with a good tax agent, expect to receive tailored services that meet your specific needs.​

During the tax season, it's important to have support from your tax agent. This is why we offer unlimited support to our clients. We're available all year round - not just during the end of the financial year - to answer any questions you have about your finances.​

Tax agents communicate in many ways - from a simple phone call and email to a video call and in-person meetings. Remote services allow for greater convenience and flexibility, as you’ll be able to connect with your tax agent anywhere, at any time. This is especially useful for busy business owners who find themselves constantly on the move. This means tax agents can offer you a high level of service and support - without the need for the commute.​

Your tax agent should be able to communicate with you personally. At Beany, our services are fully remote, meaning you save time (and money). We find that online communication is more convenient for our clients, and it allows us to offer more flexible support.​

By asking these six questions during the first consultation, you can find a tax agent who is suited to your personal and business needs.​

Why try to find a tax agent near you, when you can receive a high-class service wherever you go? At Beany, we are more than just accountants - we are tax agents as well. Our remote services enable us to provide a seamless and efficient service, no matter where you are. From lodging tax and compliance to advice on how to minimise your tax, your personal accountant (and tax agent) has you covered - get in touch today to find out more.​