Australians urged not to rush 2026 tax returns amid scam warning
An accounting body has issued a warning to Australians as they prepare to lodge their returns to the ATO.
Professional accounting body CPA Australia is urging taxpayers to not rush into preparing their 2026 tax returns and be vigilant to scams.
Tax lead Jenny Wong said many Australians were keen to lodge their returns as early as possible, but jumping in too soon and guessing figures could lead to mistakes.
“Waiting until all your income information has been finalised and pre-filled by the ATO will help ensure accuracy and reduce the risk of errors that can trigger reviews or delays,” Ms Wong said.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“According to the ATO, the best time to do this is in late July.”
The Australian Tax Office has found taxpayers who lodge before pre-fill data is available are more than twice as likely to need amendments.
More than 595,000 individual tax returns were adjusted last financial year due to missing income, overstated deductions and other discrepancies.
Ms Wong warned that tax time was a peak period for scam activity.
“Scammers use email, text messages and phone calls impersonating the ATO or tax agents to trick people into handing over personal information or money,” she said.
“If something doesn’t seem right, pause and verify the source. Access official services through the ATO website or app, or contact your registered tax agent directly.
“With increasingly sophisticated scams, a moment of caution can prevent significant financial harm.”
