ATO follow up of unmet PAYG withholding, Superannuation Guarantee Charge and GST
In March the ATO started contacting company directors to inform them about their potential personal liability for company tax debts under the Director Penalty Notice (DPN) program.
A letter is being sent to directors of companies if the company has not met their debt obligations in respect of PAYG withholding, Superannuation Guarantee Charge and GST.
Directors will be notified that the ATO is considering issuing them with a DPN, which makes them personally liable for the debts of their business if the company does not actively manage their debt.
The focus is on making directors aware of their obligations and personal liabilities, and the actions that may be taken if they don’t engage. Clear pathways will be provided to re-engage, work with the ATO and avoid escalation.
There is information on the ATO website for help with paying and support in difficult times. It is crucial that directors engage with the ATO early before any debts become unmanageable.
Directors can access the ATO’s payment plan estimator to work out an affordable plan.
Generally, while there is a debt, general interest charges continue to apply so make sure all lodgments are bought up to date to avoid further penalties.