Whether you simply forgot, faced technical issues, or didn’t realise your business needed to lodge, here’s a practical guide on what to do next.
Step 1: Lodge Your TPAR as Soon as Possible
If you’ve missed the TPAR deadline, submit your overdue report immediately. The longer you delay, the greater the risk of incurring failure-to-lodge (FTL) penalties. Even if you think you might have made a mistake in the report, it’s better to lodge and amend later than delay further.
Step 2: Contact the ATO or Your Tax Agent
The ATO is often more understanding than people expect. If you’ve received a penalty notice, contact the ATO or speak with your tax agent right away. In some cases, you may be eligible for penalty remission, especially if you have a good lodgement history or a valid reason for the delay.
Pro tip: Documentation or proof of unforeseen circumstances can help support your case.
Step 3: Submit a Non-Lodgement Advice (NLA), If Applicable
Not all businesses need to lodge a TPAR. If you didn’t make any relevant contractor payments during the financial year, you can submit a Non-Lodgement Advice (NLA) to notify the ATO that no report is required.
This helps avoid any automatic reminders or assumed non-compliance on their end.
Step 4: Get Professional Help
If you’re unsure whether you need to lodge or how to lodge correctly, consult a registered BAS agent, tax accountant, or accounting firm. They can help ensure your report is accurate and compliant with ATO requirements, especially if this is your first time dealing with TPAR.
Professional guidance can also help reduce the risk of future missed deadlines or reporting errors.
Why Acting Fast Matters
Failing to lodge your TPAR on time can lead to:
- Administrative penalties
- Delayed tax returns or refunds
- Increased ATO scrutiny
- Potential compliance reviews
Even if you’re late, being proactive shows good faith—and that can make a big difference in how the ATO responds.
Quick Recap
Here’s what to do if you missed the TPAR deadline:
- Lodge your TPAR as soon as possible
- Reach out to the ATO or your tax agent
- Submit a Non-Lodgement Advice (if you’re exempt)
- Seek professional assistance to stay compliant
Stay Ahead of the Next Deadline
Avoid missing future reporting deadlines by setting calendar reminders, subscribing to ATO alerts, or partnering with an accountant who can help you stay on top of your obligations.
Got questions about your TPAR or other small business tax responsibilities? Reach out—we’re here to help you stay compliant and stress-free.
