If you’re having difficulty lodging your BAS and paying your GST on time, don’t wait until after the due date for lodgment. There are a number of support options you can access to meet your tax and super obligations.

For help budgeting for tax, preventing debt and setting up a payment play, see Help with paying on the ATO website.

You can also call the ATO on 13 11 42 to discuss new or existing debts, payment arrangements, overdue lodgments and penalties and interest.

Payment plans

If you have a GST debt you can’t pay in full or on time you may be able to enter into a payment plan. A payment plan allows you to pay small amounts (agreed to by the ATO and you) either weekly, fortnightly or monthly, over a specified time, until your debt is cleared.

The Payment plan estimator can help you work out how soon you can pay off your debt, what your payment amounts might look like, and how much interest you will pay.  

Free financial counselling services

Financial counsellors provide information, support and advocacy to assist people in financial difficulty. Their services are free, independent and confidential.

The National Debt Helpline (NDH) is an online and phone financial counselling service available across Australia. NDH counsellors can explain what options are available to you if you find yourself in debt.

Remember: If you are struggling or concerned that you may not be able to meet your GST lodgment and payment obligations, contact the ATO. Ignoring the situation will only lead to a higher debt and penalties for failing to lodge.