IMPORTANT: read our approach to Stage 3 Restrictions and Covid-19.
COVID-19 STAGE 3 RESTRICTIONS
At midnight on July 8th 2020, Victoria announced that Metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire will enter Stage 3 Lockdowns. As a result, we are changing our ways.
Further clarification has been obtained and, as a result, we are able to continue collaborating with you. Our Governing Industry Body, the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA), have confirmed that preparing your tax return is considered an essential service. However, it is recommended non-contact methods be explored.
"...we recommend face-to-face client meetings should be avoided. Commonsense should be used to alleviate further spread of the COVID-19 virus and for the safety and wellbeing of yourself, staff and clients.
While we understand it is the busy income tax return season, there are many alternative ways to converse with clients including telephone, video conferencing, email and post. While this may cause some inefficiencies and delays, it is important we all do what we can to fight the spread of COVID-19..." (Andrew Conway, FIPA/FFA, IPA Group CEO).
What does that mean for me?
As a result, we are now offering the following, in order of preference:
1. Virtual Appointment
Our preferred method, we are pleased to announce that we are able to maintain the benefits of a Face-to-Face consult without the contact. Zoom Conferencing has been introduced into the office and has already proven efficient in streamlining a contactless environment.
We ask that you prepare and email all relevant documentation required to complete your tax return prior to your appointment (Note, some may not be attainable online):
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Income Statement
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Details of interest received from savings
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Details of Dividends received from shareholdings
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Details of any shareholdings sold
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Private Health Insurance Statements
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Receipts of items to claim
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Proof of hours worked from home due to Covid-19
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Investment property information (Rental schedule, bank interest, insurance, rates, maintenance, etc)
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Motor Vehicle information (if used for work)
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Other information relevant to preparing your Return
If you already have an appointment and wish to change to a Virtual Appointment, please contact the office.
2. Teleconference
We are always free and able to take your call. If you are not familiar or are uncomfortable with Virtual Conference, a Teleconference will be arranged.
We ask that you prepare and email all relevant documentation required to complete your tax return prior to your appointment (Note, some may not be attainable online):
-
Income Statement
-
Details of interest received from savings
-
Details of Dividends received from shareholdings
-
Details of any shareholdings sold
-
Private Health Insurance Statements
-
Receipts of items to claim
-
Proof of hours worked from home due to Covid-19
-
Investment property information (Rental schedule, bank interest, insurance, rates, maintenance, etc)
-
Motor Vehicle information (if used for work)
-
Other information relevant to preparing your Return
If you already have an appointment and wish to change to a Teleconference, please contact the office.
3. Face-to-Face
Should you feel that your appointment requires our direct attention, Face-to-Face appointments remain in available. We have confirmed with our professional association and in accordance with Government guidelines our services are considered as essential.
We have aligned our practice to follow Covid-19 protocols, as directed by the Department of Health. We also ask that you adhere to our Covid-19 policy and practice social distancing at all times. If you are sick, feel symptomatic or have come into contact with a person who has tested positive to Covid-19, please stay home. More information regarding our Covid-19 Policy can be found on our website.
If your appointment is to include more than 1 person(s), we ask that you delegate an individual to attend on your behalf. We request that those not attending are to write and sign a letter of authority, giving consent for you to act on their behalf.
Please contact the office to express your interest in a Face-to-Face appointment and for more information.
Safe Regards,
Spadaro & Associates
