3-Step Online Tax Return for Small Business – Yes, It’s That Easy

Small business owners, freelancers, sole traders, and side hustlers — if you’ve got an ABN, we’ve got your tax return sorted. No more confusing forms, no overpriced accountants, and definitely no ATO-induced headaches. Just a simple, fast, online tax return system — built for you.

At GoTax, we believe the best tax system is one that actually makes sense. That’s why our 3-Step Tax Return Process for ABN holders is winning hearts and smashing refunds across Australia. And for those who need a bit more help? Our eCashbooks tool sorts your income, expenses, and BAS like a digital Jedi.

How GoTax Works in 3 Easy Steps

Step 1: Business Basics – Tell Us What You Do

Start by entering your business details:

• What do you do? (Builder? Baker? Candle-stick maker?)

• Your ABN info, GST status, and where the cash is coming from.

• Whether it's invoicing, cash jobs or contracts—we’ll get it sorted.

This step is all about painting the big picture: who you are, what you do, and where that juicy business income is flowing from.

Step 2: Business Expenses – Let the Claims Begin

Next, we grab every tax deduction your business has coughed up for the year:

• Phone, internet, marketing, insurances, subscriptions.

• Office costs, travel, training, bookkeeping.

• And yep — you can use our built-in deduction help along the way.

This is where we start building your refund muscle. Less tax for more effort? We like the sound of that.

Step 3: Your “Stuff” – Claim the Big Ticket Items

This final step is about all your business gear — the chunky stuff:

• Tools, laptops, vehicles, furniture — anything that lasts more than 12 months.

• We’ll help you claim it the right way, whether that’s instant write-off or depreciation.

• Think of this as your tax treasure chest. The ATO lets you unlock it — and GoTax hands you the key.

Common Tax Deductions for Small Business

Let’s not leave money on the table, shall we?

• Business-related vehicle expenses (logbook or cents per km)

• Mobile phone & internet used for work

• Home office setup and running costs

• Tools, equipment, software

• Travel for business (flights, meals, accommodation)

• Insurance premiums

• Super contributions

• Marketing, advertising, and website expenses

• Bank fees on business accounts

• Accountant or bookkeeping software (like eCashbooks)

Common Tax Traps to Avoid

• Not declaring all your income

• Using personal accounts for business expenses

• Forgetting to register for GST when you earn $75,000+

• Not keeping receipts or digital records

• Claiming personal expenses as business-related

• Ignoring super contributions (bad for your refund and your future)

Often Overlooked Tax Opportunities

• Depreciation on tools and equipment over $20000

• Motor vehicle logbook method (more accurate = bigger deduction)

• Prepaying next year’s expenses before 30 June

• Claiming interest on business-related loans

• Low-cost asset instant write-offs

• Keeping separate business bank accounts (ATO loves this)

Relevant Blogs You Should Absolutely Read

These blogs give you the edge (and yep, we wrote them just for you):

1. The Self-Employed Tax Survival Guide

2. ABN Tax Deductions You Might Be Missing

3. Small Business Tax Checklist

4. Home Office Tax Deductions

5. What to Do If You Earn Cash-in-Hand Income

Q&A Section on Small Business Tax

What tax return do I need if I’m self-employed with an ABN?
If you're self-employed, you’ll need to complete an individual tax return with a business schedule. GoTax makes this super simple online.

Can I claim my laptop or tools as a deduction?
Yes, if it’s used for business, it’s deductible. Items over $20,000 may need to be depreciated — our system guides you through it.

Do I need to register for GST?
Only if your business earns $75,000+ per year. Below that, it’s optional — but once you cross the line, you have 21 days to register.

Can I use personal bank accounts for business?
You can, but it’s messy. It’s much better (and easier come tax time) to separate personal and business finances.

How does GoTax help with BAS?
We partner perfectly with eCashbooks, our bookkeeping solution that tracks income, expenses, and calculates BAS figures for you.

What happens if I don’t have receipts?
No receipts = no deduction. But you can claim up to $300 without receipts if it’s reasonable. Still, we recommend scanning everything into eCashbooks or the Deduction Grabber.

Is GoTax suitable for Uber drivers and other gig workers?
Absolutely. If you’re rideshare driving, food delivering, or freelancing, GoTax and eCashbooks are built with you in mind.

How much does a GoTax return cost for small business?
$140. Flat fee. No hidden costs. Includes all schedules and expert review.

Do I need an accountant if I use GoTax?
Nope! We are tax agents. Real ones. You’re dealing with humans, not software-only fluff.

How long does it take to complete a return?
Most small business clients complete theirs in under 20 minutes. Faster than your morning coffee run.

Can I do my tax return on my phone?
You bet. GoTax is mobile-friendly and built for busy people.

Do I need a logbook for vehicle deductions?
Yes, if you're using the logbook method. If not, you can claim up to 5,000 km using the cents-per-km method.

Can I claim expenses if I didn’t earn much this year?
Yes, even if your business income is low, you can still claim legitimate business expenses.

What if I haven’t done my tax in a few years?
No shame, no drama. We can help you catch up year by year — just start one, and we’ll guide you.

What happens after I finish my return on GoTax?
Our team checks your return, makes sure everything’s sweet, and then finalises it with the ATO. You’ll get updates along the way.

Can I claim super if I’m self-employed?
Yes — and you should. Contributions to your super can be tax deductible and help you save for the future.

Do I need a business name to do my tax?
Not at all. An ABN is enough. If you have a registered business name, you can include it, but it’s not required.

Do I need to declare cash income?
Yes. All income — even cash-in-hand — must be declared. ATO’s watching.

What if I made a loss this year?
Losses can sometimes be carried forward to offset future profits. GoTax will work it out for you.

Is eCashbooks included in my tax return?
No, it’s separate — but designed to work hand-in-hand with your GoTax return. Perfect for ongoing business tracking.

And...

You're busy running your business. Let us run your tax.

For just $140, GoTax gives ABN holders the fastest, easiest, most human tax return in Australia.

And if you're sick of scrambling through shoeboxes or tangled spreadsheets, eCashbooks is your new best friend.

Start your ABN tax return today at www.gotax.com.au/abn-tax-return
And while you’re there, ask D.e.r.e.k anything — he knows his stuff.