How to get a copy of my notice of assessment: A step-by-step guide

If you need a copy of a previous income year’s NOA and it’s not in your myGov Inbox, you can still request it through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) online services. This involves navigating to the “Tax, Lodgments” section and selecting the relevant financial year under the 'History' tab. This feature is highly useful for keeping track of your tax documents over multiple years.

In some cases, if online access is not an option, you can request prior year copies by filling out the Copies of Tax Documents Request form available on the ATO website. This form covers lodged income tax returns and other key documents dating back several years, ensuring you have comprehensive access to your tax history.

Key takeaways

• Access your NOA online through myGov
• Request past NOAs via ATO’s online services
• Use the Tax Documents Request form if needed

Understanding your Notice of Assessment

Your notice of assessment details your tax assessment, showing any refund or tax payable. Here, we break down its key components, explain how taxable income is calculated, and interpret information about refunds and bills.

Components of the Notice of Assessment

Your notice of assessment includes various sections, each providing important details:

• Tax file number (TFN): This uniquely identifies you to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
• Taxable income: The amount of income you are taxed on.
• Franking credits: Credits from franked dividends that you can claim.
• Tax payable/refund: Shows whether you owe money or are due a refund.
• Authority statement: Confirms that the information is from the ATO.

Review each part carefully to understand your tax obligations and entitlements.

Explaining taxable income and calculations

Taxable income is your total income minus deductions like work-related expenses. The notice of assessment calculates:

1. Total income: Salary, interest, dividends.
2. Deductions: Expenses such as work-related costs, donations.
3. Taxable income: Income minus deductions.

The ATO uses this to determine tax payable. For example, if total income is $60,000 and deductions total $5,000, your taxable income is $55,000. The tax payable is calculated based on this amount.

Interpreting refund and bill information

The notice of assessment will show if you’re due a refund or need to pay additional tax.

• Refund: If you’ve paid more tax than required, you’ll receive a refund.
• Tax payable: If you owe more tax, this section will detail the amount due.

Check payment deadlines and methods if you owe tax. If expecting a refund, verify your bank details to ensure it’s processed correctly. This section confirms your final tax position for the year.

How to access your Notice of Assessment online

To access your Notice of Assessment online, you need to navigate the MyGov account portal and link the Australian Taxation Office to your account. You can then retrieve your notices through ATO Online Services.

Navigating the MyGov account portal

First, you need to log in to your MyGov account. Visit the MyGov website and enter your login details. If you don't have a MyGov account, you will need to create one by clicking on the "Create an account" button.

Once logged in, you'll see a dashboard with various linked agencies. This is your main hub for accessing different government services. Make sure your account is secure by regularly updating your password and enabling two-factor authentication.

Linking the Australian Taxation Office to MyGov

To access tax-related documents, you need to link the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to your MyGov account. On the MyGov dashboard, select "Services" and then click on "Link" next to the ATO. You will need to provide personal details such as your Tax File Number (TFN) and some identification information.

After linking, you will receive communications from ATO directly in your MyGov inbox. Ensure your details are up to date to avoid any issues with linking.

Retrieving Notices of Assessment via ATO online services

Once the ATO is linked, you can use ATO Online Services to retrieve your Notice of Assessment. Visit the ATO online services page and log in with your MyGov credentials. Navigate to "Tax," then "Lodgments," and select "Income tax."

Under the "Income tax" section, choose "History," then select the year for which you need the Notice of Assessment. Click on the "Notice of Assessment" link to view and print your document. Make sure to review the information on the notice to ensure everything is correct.

Alternative ways to request your Notice of Assessment

If you need a copy of your Notice of Assessment (NOA), there are several ways to make the request through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Here, we'll cover how you can do so by phone, in person, or using secure mail.

Phone requests

Calling the ATO is a straightforward way to request your NOA. Use the phone number listed on their official website. Be prepared to provide personal details like your Tax File Number (TFN) and other identification to verify your identity.

When calling, you might need to wait on hold, especially during peak times. The representative will confirm your request and arrange for the NOA to be sent to your mailing address. Ensure your address is up to date in their records to avoid delays.

In-person requests

You can visit an ATO service centre to request a copy of your NOA. Bring identification documents such as your driver's licence, passport, or other government-issued ID. Locate the nearest ATO office using the office finder on their website.

Once there, tell the staff member that you need a copy of your NOA. They will verify your identity and assist you in obtaining the document. Visiting in person can often result in quicker service, especially if you have ongoing issues with your account that need resolving.

Requesting via Secure Mail

Using ATO’s secure mail system through your online myGov account is another efficient method. Log in to your myGov account linked to the ATO. Navigate to the "My profile" section, then go to "Communication" and "History".

From there, you can view and print past Notices of Assessment. If the document you need isn't available online, send a secure message to the ATO detailing your request. They will respond through secure mail, ensuring your information is protected.

Using secure mail is ideal for individuals who prefer handling their tax matters online and require a digital copy of their documents. It also provides a written record of your request and the ATO's response.

Addressing discrepancies and filing objections

Addressing discrepancies in your tax return is crucial to ensure accuracy and compliance with ATO regulations. Filing objections when necessary can correct errors and potentially avoid fines or penalties.

Reviewing income statements for accuracy

Start by reviewing your income statements for the stated income year. Check for accuracy in reported earnings, deductions, and credits. Ensure your Tax File Number (TFN) and other personal details are correct.

Compare the income statements to your own records. If discrepancies are found, you may need to adjust your lodged tax return or activity statement. Correct errors with the ATO before they issue your notice of assessment.

If you believe the notice of assessment is incorrect, you have the right to file an objection. Provide supporting evidence and clearly explain why you believe the assessment is wrong. The ATO will review the facts and make a decision based on your objection.

Frequently asked questions

Learn how to access your notice of assessment through various methods, including myGov, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), and Centrelink.

How can I retrieve my notice of assessment using myGov?

If you lodged your tax return online through myGov, you can find your notice of assessment by logging into your account. Navigate to My profile > Communication > History. Your notice of assessment should be listed there once your tax return is processed.

What steps do I follow to obtain a notice of assessment from the ATO?

To get a copy directly from the ATO, visit the Australian Taxation Office website. Follow the instructions for requesting copies of tax documents, including notices of assessment from 1997-2009.

Where can I find my past tax assessment notices?

Past tax assessment notices can be requested through the ATO. Complete the copies of tax documents request form for lodged income tax returns from 1997-2009 or payment summaries. Visit the ATO's copies of tax documents request page for more details.

What's the process for acquiring a notice of assessment through Centrelink?

You can link your myGov account to Centrelink to access your notice of assessment. Once linked, navigate to the relevant sections within Centrelink's online platform under your myGov account. Ensure all your information is up to date for smooth processing.

Can I access my notice of assessment if I don't have a myGov account?

Yes, you can. Contact a Tax Agent who processed your tax return; they can provide you with a copy. Alternatively, request your notice of assessment directly from the ATO by calling their support line or visiting their website.

Whom should I contact at the ATO to get help with my notice of assessment?

For assistance, contact the ATO's customer support services. Visit the ATO Community for additional advice or call the ATO directly for help regarding your notice of assessment.

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