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DrRoland(I'm new)I'm new
24 Feb 2026

by some mistake I just realised I have a cheque from the ATO which is more than 12 months old. Can I still bank it or what do I need to do? Please help.

217 views
2 replies
217 views
2 replies

All replies

NikkiATO(Community Moderator)Community Moderator
24 Feb 2026

Hi @DrRoland,


A cheque becomes stale once it has been in circulation for more than 15 months without being presented, cancelled or replaced.


When that happens, we automatically re‑credit the amount back to your ATO account as a repaid refund for a stale cheque. Once it has been re‑credited, it can be refunded again (usually by EFT to your bank account) or offset against any outstanding tax debts.


Just give us a call or update your bank details in ATO Online and request the refund to be reissued.

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how long is the ATO cheque valid? | ATO Community