A registered BAS agent offers professional support, ensuring your GST and payroll reporting and compliance are accurate and timely. Managing your Business Activity Statement (BAS) obligations can be a daunting task. This blog will explore the benefits of using a registered BAS agent, when BAS is due, and the differences between BAS agents and other services.
What is a Registered BAS Agent?
A registered BAS agent is a qualified professional certified by the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB). They specialise in assisting businesses with BAS preparation and lodgement, ensuring compliance with Australian tax laws. Their expertise extends to managing and reporting:
- Goods and Services Tax (GST)
- Pay As You Go Withholding (PAYGW)
- Payroll and Single Touch Payroll (STP)
Key Responsibilities of a Registered BAS Agent:
- Preparing and lodging BAS & IAS for businesses
- Providing expert GST and PAYGW advice
- Ensuring compliance with ATO requirements
To view a full detailed list of the additional tasks that a BAS Agent can provide visit the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) Website.
Important: By law, contracted BAS services provided must be completed by a regestered BAS Agent. To check if your contracted Bookkeeper is registered click here and type in their Registered Agent Number (RAN): Use our RAN to test it now 26188408.
Why You Need a BAS Agent
1. Stay Compliant with Australian Tax Laws
Missing a BAS deadline can result in penalties and interest charges from the ATO. A registered BAS agent ensures your business stays compliant by preparing accurate and timely reports.
2. Save Time & Focus on Business Growth
Handling BAS lodgements on your own can be time-consuming. A BAS agent takes care of the process, allowing you to focus on growing your business.
3. Receive Expert Advice on GST & PAYG
Registered BAS agents understand complex GST obligations and can provide professional guidance to help you avoid costly errors.
4. A More Cost-Effective Alternative to an Accountant
Hiring an accountant for BAS lodgements often comes with higher fees. In most cases, a registered BAS agent offers the same service at a lower cost.
When is BAS Due?
Depending on your business structor and regisitations BAS due dates vary but are typically due quarterly.
BAS Due Dates:
- Q1: 1 July – 30 September → Due 28 October
- Q2: 1 October – 31 December → Due 28 February
- Q3: 1 January – 31 March → Due 28 April
- Q4: 1 April – 30 June → Due 28 July
Tip: Use our financial year calendar to keep track of due dates and stay compliant.
What Sets TLS BAS & Bookkeeping Apart from Other BAS Agents?
With years of industry experience and a sharp eye for detail, Tanya and her team at TLS BAS & Bookkeeping are known for spotting issues others might miss. Their dedication to accuracy, compliance, and genuine care for their clients has earned the trust of businesses across the South West. By aligning their values with those of their clients, they consistently deliver high-quality BAS services tailored to support each business’s unique needs.
Benefits of a Bookkeeper Who Is Also a Registered BAS Agent
Did you know, that not all bookkeepers are registered BAS agents, this distinction is important when managing your business records. A registered BAS agent has the necessary qualifications, training, and accreditation from the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB), allowing them to provide BAS-related services legally. This means they can do more than just maintain your books—they can also prepare and lodge BAS, provide GST advice, and act on your behalf with the ATO. Hiring a bookkeeper who is also a registered BAS agent offers numerous advantages, including:
Key Benefits:
- Full Oversight of Your Books – A registered BAS agent can handle both bookkeeping and BAS lodgements, reducing the need for multiple professionals.
- Legal Compliance – Only registered BAS agents are authorised to offer BAS-related services, ensuring your business meets ATO requirements.
- Expert GST & PAYG Advice – They can provide professional advice on GST, PAYG withholding, and more, helping you minimise errors.
- Fewer Errors & ATO Issues – With formal training and experience, they can identify and fix discrepancies in your records before they become costly problems.
- Time & Cost Efficiency – Consolidating bookkeeping and BAS services saves you time, reduces errors, and streamlines your record-keeping.
- Greater Accountability & Protection – Registered BAS agents are legally required to adhere to strict professional and ethical standards, giving you peace of mind.
Having a bookkeeper who is also a registered BAS agent is a smart move for any business owner. It ensures your business remains compliant, organised, and efficient, while also helping you avoid costly mistakes. Beyond managing your books, they can also interpret financial reports, giving you valuable insights to make informed decisions and drive business growth. Plus, with your bookkeeping in expert hands, you’ll have more time to focus on what really matters—growing your business.
How Can a BAS Agent Lodge BAS for You
A BAS agent can lodge your activity statements using:
- ATO Services Online
- Accounting software integrated with ATO systems
Common FAQs About BAS
What happens if I lodge my BAS late?
The ATO may charge late penalties and interest on overdue payments. Lodge on time to avoid these additional costs.
Can I lodge my BAS myself?
Yes, you can lodge BAS through myGov, accounting software, or with a registered BAS agent. Choosing a BAS agent ensures accuracy and compliance.
What’s the difference between a BAS agent and a tax agent?
A BAS agent specialises in GST and PAYG obligations, whereas tax agents handle a broader range of tax matters, including income tax returns.
What Other Services Does TLS BAS & Bookkeeping Provide?
TLS BAS & Bookkeeping offers a range of services including BAS/IAS preparation and lodgment, full bookkeeping services (accounts receivable/payable, credit control, and financial transaction management), payroll management, reconciling accounts, cloud-based software setup and training (MYOB, Xero, etc.), and assistance with budgets and financial projections. These services are designed to ensure compliance, streamline processes, and support informed decision-making for your business.
All services are provided onsite or virtually depending on your needs and location.
TLS BAS & Bookkeeping Services: Professional BAS Preparation & Lodgement
TLS Bookkeeping offers comprehensive BAS and IAS preparation and lodgement services. We ensure your financial data is organised, accounts reconciled, and all forms accurately submitted on time.
Learn more about our BAS/IAS and Payroll Services.
Simplify Your BAS with Professional Help
Partnering with a registered BAS agent can save time, reduce stress, and ensure compliance with ATO requirements. For West Australian business owners, this is an investment in the smooth running of your business. Contact TLS BAS & Bookkeeping today for professional BAS preparation and lodgement services.
