Many people stay with the same tax agent for years simply out of habit, without ever stopping to ask whether they’re still getting good value. However, switching is easier than most people expect, and there are a few clear signs worth paying attention to before another tax season goes by.
If pricing feels vague, changes without explanation, or you’re regularly surprised by a bigger bill than expected, that’s a sign of poor communication rather than a one-off issue. Consequently, this pattern tends to repeat every year rather than improve.
A good tax agent is a resource throughout the year — for ATO letters, business changes, or general questions — not someone who disappears after lodgement. Therefore, if your only contact is a rushed appointment once a year, you’re likely missing out on planning opportunities the rest of the time.
If appointments consist purely of handing over numbers with no questions asked about your situation, deductions are probably being missed. Moreover, a good tax agent actively looks for opportunities specific to your circumstances rather than just processing what you provide.
Occasional ATO reviews are normal, but repeated errors, amendments, or penalties can point to carelessness rather than bad luck. Consequently, if this keeps happening, it’s worth getting a second opinion on the quality of the work being done.
Long delays in responding to emails or calls, especially when you have a time-sensitive question, are a sign that you’re not a priority. Therefore, if this becomes the norm rather than the exception, it’s a reasonable reason to look elsewhere.
Starting a business, buying property, or taking on investments changes what you need from a tax agent. If your current agent hasn’t proactively raised these changes with you, they may not have the experience to support your new situation properly.
Sometimes there’s no specific problem — you’ve simply never checked whether another agent might offer better value, clearer communication, or more proactive advice. Consequently, even a quick comparison can be worth the time, particularly before a new tax season begins.
Changing tax agents generally just requires informing your new agent, who can request your prior-year information directly. Therefore, there’s no need to personally manage the handover or worry about paperwork falling through the cracks.
EBATS has supported individuals and businesses across Australia since 2011, with clear pricing, year-round availability, and advice built around your actual situation.
📍 Suite 2.2/47 Queen St, Campbelltown NSW 2560, Australia 📞 0404 471 816 🌐 www.ebats.com.au 📧 [email protected]
Ethical Accounting & Taxation Services | Campbelltown NSW | Trusted Tax, Accounting & Business Support Since 2011