What to expect from an investigation

Description

This video covers what to expect when you are investigated by us.

Transcript

Generally, we will only select you for an investigation if we have information that suggests you may have underpaid tax or received an exemption, grant or concession you are ineligible for.

This information could be the result of data received from other revenue offices, government agencies, councils, financial institutions and utility companies, or receiving a tip-off.

Being selected for an investigation does not necessarily mean you have done something wrong and you will get the chance to share information with us.

During an investigation we're here to help you understand your rights and obligations.

In return, we expect you to be courteous, cooperative and honest, tell us if you've made an error, and give us timely access to the information we request.

The investigation process follows these steps.

First, you will receive a written notification via email or post to let you know an investigation has started.

This is called a notice of investigation.

A notice of investigation will contain your investigator's contact details, a unique investigation case number, the reason for the investigation, what information we need from you and the due date to provide it.

You should then review your circumstances and provide all the information requested in your notice of investigation by the due date, as well as any other information that may help the investigator make their decision.

Finally, at the end of the investigation, you will receive a written notification confirming our decision, the reasons for the decision and any tax, penalties or interest.

You may also receive a phone call from your investigator.

Penalty tax can be up to 90%.

Your cooperation with an investigation may reduce the amount of penalty tax we apply.

Once you receive your written notification confirming the completion of your investigation, if you are dissatisfied with the outcome and disagree with how the relevant legislation has been applied, you have the right to object.

To learn more about how we ensure you comply with your tax obligations, visit our website: sro.vic.gov.au/compliance.