In a bad mood today

I agree @ArraDreaming - you would think the ATO would cut people slack, especially during this time where things are already so hard for so many people.

I wish you could just ignore it but I know from my own experience the ATO doesn't work like that. Maybe you could call the ATO, tell them your circumstances? Perhaps they could come up with a payment plan that would be much more manageable than a one off payment. I think so many people would find that type of money hard to come up with all at once.

Best wishes,

FloatingFeather

Hi @ArraDreaming,

Just an idea that might help? There are free financial counsellors that you can speak to on the National Debt Helpline To speak with a financial counsellor contact the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. This free hotline is open from 9:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday. Or if you’d rather contact them on webchat this is the link https://ndh.org.au/.

They are also confidential so your privacy is protected.

Best wishes,

FloatingFeather

@ArraDreaming We all hate the taxman. Running a business takes a bit of nous, and to be successful enough to owe tax, is proof. Not sure if you can get a re-assessment, or start paying small deductions and delay the total. Sometimes that helps get a better response from ATO. Cut yourself some slack, and maybe in the long run you will know how much to put aside.

On You for surviving with a small business during Covid.

Not sure @ArraDreaming but if you make even a small payment and promise to do regular deductions, it may not be arrestable. I do know the try and scare people, but are open to negotiation. They are really after the big bad guys. Tho you did great running your business you are still a little guy ... in the making money sense of things.

Sorry mate I worked for tax man in my mid 20s. Just give them something, and give up. Its cool you owe tax, you can pay it eventually, and work on your legit expenses more next time.