I have accidentally paid the ATO $5,000, how do I get it back? Seems impossible to contact them by phone or online. Have I really got to write a letter in this day and age?
Thanks
I have accidentally paid the ATO $5,000, how do I get it back? Seems impossible to contact them by phone or online. Have I really got to write a letter in this day and age?
Thanks
Hi DCW,
If you paid the money to your individual account with the ATO, your best bet would be to login to myGov and request a refund from the ATO. If you only made the payment today, it may take a couple of days to show up as a credit on your ATO account though, so you may need to wait until a few days.
Another option would be to contact your Tax Agent (if you have one) as they can request a refund on your behalf.
Alternatively, if the amount was paid to a non-individual account the with ATO, you'll need to login via "online services for businesses" and request a refund through there.
Otherwise you can keep trying to call them over the next few days. Sending a letter would not be worth it in my opinion.
Hi DCW,
If you paid the money to your individual account with the ATO, your best bet would be to login to myGov and request a refund from the ATO. If you only made the payment today, it may take a couple of days to show up as a credit on your ATO account though, so you may need to wait until a few days.
Another option would be to contact your Tax Agent (if you have one) as they can request a refund on your behalf.
Alternatively, if the amount was paid to a non-individual account the with ATO, you'll need to login via "online services for businesses" and request a refund through there.
Otherwise you can keep trying to call them over the next few days. Sending a letter would not be worth it in my opinion.
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