Start Your 2025 Tax Return
At By The Bay Tax & Accounting, we’ve always aimed to keep things simple, transparent, and efficient — and this year is no different. With new regulations in place from 1 July 2025, we’ve streamlined our process to make engaging with us even easier.
Our 2025 Tax Return Process:
Click the button below to open our secure proposal
Review your service options
Your standard tax return will be pre-selected
Add any extras that may apply to your situation (such as rental property income, CGT, sole trader income)
Read and accept our engagement terms
Enter your contact details and pay securely online
Check your email
You’ll receive a link to complete our online tax return questionnaire and upload your documents
Once we receive your completed form, your return will be added to our workflow. We work on a first-in, first-out basis, so the earlier you complete the process, the sooner we can get started.
We get to work
Your job goes into our work flow queue.
You’ll hear from us if we need clarification
We’ll prepare your return and send it for digital signing
Optional: Book a review call
Want to go over your return before signing? We’ll offer you a quick call option to help answer any questions and have you feel confident before signing.
Turnaround time: Returns are prepared on a first-in, first-out basis, with an estimated turnaround of 3–6 weeks from the date we receive your completed questionnaire.
New Clients – Identity Verification Requirement: If you’re a new client, you’ll also receive a separate link to verify your identity through our secure platform before we can begin preparing your return. This is a one-time step to ensure compliance and protect your personal information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do I need to accept a proposal and pay upfront?
From 1 July 2025, new rules apply to all tax agents, requiring clearer engagement terms before work begins. We’ve embraced this change to provide a smoother, more transparent experience for you — with upfront pricing and faster turnaround times.
Q: How much does it cost?
Our fees depend on the complexity of your return and are clearly outlined in your proposal before you accept. You’ll know the full amount up front by working through the proposal and selecting the add-ons that apply to your situation. If we identify anything more complex during prep, we’ll discuss it with you before charging any extra.
Q: What if I’m not sure which add-ons I need?
If you’re unsure about rental property, CGT, sole trader income, or anything else, you’re welcome to call us and ask, or leave it unselected for now and complete the proposal. Our team will review your situation when your job is up and contact you if anything additional applies.
Q: I’ve used By The Bay Tax & Accounting before — why is the process different this year?
We’re always improving. This year, we’ve moved to an online engagement and payment process to reduce delays and admin time. It ensures we have all your info upfront and allows us to keep turnaround times fair and consistent.
Q: What happens after I accept the proposal?
You’ll receive a confirmation email with a link to complete our online tax return questionnaire. That’s where you’ll upload documents and share any extra details. Your job will be added to our queue once that’s completed.
Q: How long will it take?
Our current turnaround time is 3–6 weeks from when we receive your completed questionnaire. The more complete and organised your info is, the smoother and faster the process will be. There may be peak times when this could extend for longer, however we’ve set internal targets and we’re eager to achieve them.
Q: Can I speak to someone before I sign my return?
Absolutely. Once we’ve finalised your return, we’ll send it for review and invite you to book a tax return review call — a chance to ask any final questions before signing.
Q: What if I change my mind after paying?
There’s a small non-refundable admin fee of $55 to cover file setup, software, and admin time. If we’ve already started working on your return, further fees may be deducted based on the time spent. Any remaining amount will be refunded to you.
