ATO switches on Online services for business

The launch comes after the ATO conducted a public beta earlier this year, with a view to replace the Business Portal and electronic superannuation audit tool (eSAT) at a yet-to-be-confirmed date later this year.

“The Business Portal has served us well over the last 17 years, but it’s time to replace it with a much more contemporary service that’s been developed with business so we know they’ll enjoy using it,” ATO deputy commissioner Deborah Jenkins said.

“We’ve done extensive testing with clients. In the spirit of designing with the end-user in mind, many businesses have been involved in the development of the service from the very beginning, and we are grateful for the valuable feedback we’ve received. 

“We’ve made many tweaks and improvements to the service as a result and continue to work through how we can further improve the experience for all businesses as they transition to our online platform.”

The ATO said the new service makes it easier for businesses to interact with the ATO online and provides a secure channel to manage their tax and super obligations. It can be accessed on multiple devices, including phones or tablets.

In addition to providing the services available in the Business Portal, Online services for business allows users to access new services such as viewing and printing tax returns and income tax history and creating payment plans. It will also come with homepage customisation and access to new secure mail subjects. 

Ms Jenkins said the new time-saving features include the switch ABN function that allows clients to easily move between the businesses they manage without having to log out and back in again. 

“Businesses have also told us they love being able to organise a payment plan with us online using the service rather than calling us, which saves them precious time,” she said.

“We’ve seen a great increase in participation from small business owners making the switch to the new service. Businesses in the professional, scientific and technical services and construction sectors have been quick to jump on board. We’d like to see more manufacturing, retail trade, healthcare and social assistance businesses also start using the service.”

Businesses can start using Online services for business by logging in with their myGovID as they did for the Business Portal, according to the ATO. For those new to Online services, they will need to set up a myGovID and be linked to their organisation through Relationship Authorisation Manager.

“We understand this year has, and continues to be, challenging for many clients. We know businesses have a lot on their plate, so we will maintain the electronic superannuation tool (eSAT) and Business Portal for a transition period over the coming months to help users adjust to the new service,” Ms Jenkins said.   

“We are here to support businesses through this transition, and while the new service will ensure an improved experience across a range of services, it is important to note that it is not a replacement for the professional advisory services provided by tax professionals.”