The November edition of our Tax Update newsletter is now available for download from the main site.

This issue includes information on:

• Christmas Gifts
• Small Business Benchmarks
• Record-Keeping for Business
• ATO’s New Property Web Page
• Pacific Seasonal Workers’ Tax Rate Reduced

This particular newsletter is available for download exclusively for clients (a username and password is required).

If you are not a client and would like a copy of the November Tax Update – or you do not know your login details – simply email Christie (christie @ lewistaxation.com.au) and I will be more than happy to forward a copy on to you.

Central Coast Accounting Firm seeks experienced office manager/ accountant.

Alas, our fabulous office manager/senior bookkeeper is leaving us shortly. Sharen is off to manage the expansion of her own successful family business. We’re thrilled for her, of course, but I did consider the possibility of chaining her to the desk in her office so she can’t ever leave (word of warning, Fair Work tends to frown on that kind of thing). 

Now, we’re a small team and so often each wear multiple hats. With the news that our current super-star is leaving us, I’m afraid I’ll be wearing so many hats I won’t be able to hold my head up.

So now the search is on for a multi-skilled candidate who can replace an irreplaceable team member (no pressure!) and support me in different administrative and business development tasks.

What I need right now more than anything is:

• someone who can assist in the preparation of BAS and quarterly reports (minimally, be able to take it to a stage where it just needs review and perhaps adjusting entries);
• someone who can liaise with clients, handle routine requests, follow through and follow up to ensure all client needs are being met, be proactive in developing relationships;
• someone who can manage and instruct the front office staff (delegate tasks, ensure database is maintained, monitor jobflow, implement/update procedures, generally watch over the day-to-day stuff);
• someone who can assist in the preparation of proposals/engagements and other client communications, including marketing materials and newsletter content.

In essence, I need someone who can see what needs to be done and does it.

I don’t expect to find a new and improved hybrid of Sharen and myself who can leap tall buildings in a single bound as they fly in to work on the first day. I do expect a confident all-rounder who can hit the ground running.

It is essential this individual is

• familiar with the accounting environment,
• proficient in fundamental accounts preparation (even better if you’re an experienced accountant who can prepare  business tax returns and financial statements to review stage),
• able to connect with people, and
• know their way around Office software (bonus if you’re already trained in Handisoft).

I need someone who can produce quality output with minimal supervision.

I anticipate the successful applicant would have a proven track record that demonstrates the above. 

Although I am primarily seeking a replacement for Sharen, I’m open to the possibility of an intermediate or senior accountant with a hands-on approach to clients and projects.

If we can get excited about you, and you’re excited to work with us, that’s a great first step… the rest are details to be worked later based on the skill set and expectations brought to the table. 

 If this sounds like a position that may interest you, look us up online (we have the blog, website, Facebook , Twitter, etc). Get an idea for yourself on who we are, what we are about and whether or not you see yourself as a fit.

Send a resume by all means, but only with a compelling reason to open it. Let’s face it, what I really want to  know is who you are, what you can do for us, and why we should hire you.

Your time is just as valuable as mine so if you have your own ‘hope-for’s’ or ‘must-haves’ feel free to share them also.  

We can be quite flexible when it comes to hours and working arrangements for the right person.

The question is, are you the person I’m looking for? 

Feel free to send any expressions of interest, questions or applications to christie@lewistaxation.com.au. You might want to check out one of my earlier posts titled Job Applications – What NOT to do for a couple of quick tips.

TaxWise Business News is published each quarter. The September, 2011 issue of TaxWise Business is now available from the main site.

This quarter’s issue includes the following articles:

• ATO Compliance Target Areas 2011-12
• Taxing Carbon
• Managing Tax Debts
• Proposed Not-for-profit Reforms
• Car Fringe Benefits Rules Changed
• Excess Super Contributions Tax
• CGT Small Business Conscessions Tool

Remember that you can subscribe to the Enewsletter version of TaxWise Business News to have it emailed to you each quarter. Simply head to the newsletter sign up page or enter your details into the Subscription Box on your right.

Did you know you can still access previous editions of all our newsletters in our newsletter archive? Check them out below.  

TaxWise Individual News

TaxWise Individual News is currently published bi-annually and emailed (or snail-mailed) out to all interested personal tax clients. You can download each issue in PDF format or click the links to read through individual articles online.  

Go there >

TaxWise Business News

TaxWise Business News is produced quarterly and emailed (or snail-mailed) out to interested clients. Visitors to our site can access individual articles online by using the links provided or download complete issues in PDF format.  

Go there >

Business Plus+ Newsletter

The aim of this newsletter is to give you some useful articles, tips and pointers that will make a difference to your business, irrespective of it’s size or ownership structure. Follow the links to browse through individual articles or download the latest edition in PDF format.  

Go there >

Tax Update Monthly

Our monthly Tax Update newsletter is written in an easy and relaxed style to keep you up-to-date with important tax changes. This particular newsletter is available exlusively to clients for download. Please log in for download links.  

Go there >

The September edition of our Tax Update newsletter is now available for download from the main site.

This issue includes information on:

• ATO Clamps Down on GST Fraud and Cash IncomeMeaning of ‘Cost Price’ of a Car for FBT Purposes
• ATO Data Matching: Flood and cyclone reconstruction levy
• Is an Investment Made by a Trustee Always on Capital Account?
• Government Committed to Superannuation Reforms
• ATO Warning About Illegally Accessing Super Early

This particular newsletter is available for download exclusively for clients and Facebook Fans (a username and password is required).

If you are not a client and would like a copy of the September Tax Update – or you do not know your login details – simply email Christie (christie @ lewistaxation.com.au) and I will be more than happy to forward a copy on to you.

The August edition of our Tax Update newsletter is now available for download from the main site.

This issue includes information on:

• ATO Focus on SMSFs
• Warning: Investing in Overseas Property
• New This Year to Family Tax
• Superannuation: Common Mistakes Made by Employers
• Car Depreciation Limit for 2011/12
• Reasonable Overtime Meal Allowance Amounts 2011/12

This particular newsletter is available for download exclusively for clients (a username and password is required).

If you are not a client and would like a copy of the August Tax Update – or you do not know your login details – simply email Christie (christie @ lewistaxation.com.au) and I will be more than happy to forward a copy on to you.

It has been almost a year since I posted a Practice Update. We have a lot of  news to share. For now, let’s stick with a tax-time update.

Addition to the Team

First of all, we would like to welcome aboard Sharen Griffin.  

Sharen worked with Alan for many years at Trevor Tynan & Associates, Budgewoi.

Sharen brings to the team over 14 years of experience in public practice and has extensive experience in a range of accounting software programs, including HandiBiz, MYOB and Quicken. 

Sharen oversees the day-to-day jobflow of the front office and assists with data entry to ensure all client work is processed with accuracy and efficiency.

EFTPOS Available

For your convenience, EFTPOS and credit card payments can now be accepted at reception.

Of course, fee-from-refund is still available if you prefer.

Extended Hours

Due to the high demands for tax-time appointments, our office hours have extended to include Saturdays. In addition, in-office appointments can be taken until 6pm.

Please note that the first available appointment is not until the first week of August – cancellations do occur, however, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you if your preferred time slot opens up.

 Tax Return Processing

The ATO appear to be off to a good start this year and tax refunds are coming back within 14 days (often less).

The only hiccups we’ve noted thus far relate to clients whose TFN’s were compromised in the previous year. It appears that additional identity checks are being carried out on those particular returns.

Waiting Room Goodies

Yes, we still have Fantales! In fact, we’re currently going through a kilo of Fantales each week in the waiting room!  

If you’re in the area and running early, why not pop in ahead of time and enjoy a tea, coffee, or softdrink before your appointment.

You’ll find we have a selection of the latest magazines to browse over that cuppa.    

Website

The website is systematically being updated to reflect the latest tax rates and changes to legislation.  In the meantime, if you have any questions, feel free to ask them on the blog.

At the moment, my inbox is overflowing with questions from people who are self-preparing on eTax. I will try to respond to all emails, but it may take me a few days or more to get back to you at this busy time of year.

Clients of our firm with any tax-time questions are encouraged to phone the office on 1300352235 or email your accountant directly.

The July edition of our Tax Update newsletter is now available for download from the main site.

This issue includes information on:

• Occupations in the spotlight for the 2011 income year
• Tax laws amended to allow income ‘streaming’ by trusts
• Flood levy exemption declaration
• Deductions for study and job seeking expenses
• ATO warning: Unpaid directors fees
• ATO focus on unpaid present entitlements owed to companies
• Deductions for TPD insurance 

This particular newsletter is available for download exclusively for clients (a username and password is required).

If you are not a client and would like a copy of the July Tax Update – or you do not know your login details – simply email Christie (christie @ lewistaxation.com.au).

The June edition of our Tax Update newsletter is now available for download from the main site.

This issue includes information on:

• Budget 2011
• ATO Focus on Employer Super Contributions
• Compliance Project: Government Stimulus Payments
• FBT Car Parking Thresholds
• CGT Improvement Thresholds

With tax time just around the corner, I’ve also prepared an Individual Tax Return Checklist (lots of hints on deductions) and a Year End Checklist for Business. These can both be download from the same area of the site.  

This particular newsletter is available for download exclusively for clients (a username and password is required).

If you are not a client and would like a copy of the April Tax Update – or you do not know your login details – simply email Christie (christie @ lewistaxation.com.au).

The May edition of our Tax Update newsletter is now available for download from the main site.

This issue includes information on:

• Flood Levy Passed
• Personal Services – Data Matching Program
• ATO Withdraws 2009 Cash Sales Benchmarks
• Supply of Land Development Not a Going Concern
• FBT: Benchmark Interest Rate
• FBT: Cents per Kilometre Basis

This particular newsletter is available for download exclusively for clients (a username and password is required).

If you are not a client and would like a copy of the April Tax Update – or you do not know your login details – simply email Christie (christie @ lewistaxation.com.au).

It is that time of year again when I start thinking about updating and altering the content of the main site. There are still many areas I began some time ago and never quite got around to finalising (yes, I really should really do that one day). In an effort to obtain inspiration I’ve been trawing the web looking at other accountant’s sites. I have to tell you, we have some pretty poor efforts out there. I even found one Sydney practice with scrolling tax update headlines from 2003 – seriously, guys, you’re not exactly coming over as cutting-edge. 

What I really want to know is what do you hope to find on an accountants website? Sure, you’d probably want to know a bit about the practice itself, but what do you really hope to find there? (yes, I know it is hard for most people to get excited about accountant’s websites but stick with me here).  

We’ve always felt that the site should serve as a resource for clients and vistors. The real challenge has been in determining what resources to develop and share.   

Have you ever  been to your own accountant’s website? Why would you visit again? If it stinks, what would make it useful to you? 

Do you want tax/financial facts and figures? Tips and tricks? Practical downloadable templates you can use? Software tutorials or lessons in bookkeping? What is it exactly that you hope to find?  

It’s time to get opinionated…. I want your thoughts.

The Tax Update newsletter is written in an easy and relaxed style to keep you up-to-date with important tax changes. The April edition is now available for download from the main site.

This issue includes information on:

• End of the 2010/11 FBT Year
• ATO Focus on Property Developers
• ATO Focuses on Sham Contracting
• Labour Hire Arrangements Using a Discretionary Trust
• ATO Warns About New Scam Email
• Donations For Relief Effort in Japan.

This particular newsletter is available for download exclusively for clients (a username and password is required).

I will blog on these issues in the coming weeks. In the meantime, if you are not a client and would like a copy of the April Tax Update – or you do not know your login details – simply email Christie (christie @ lewistaxation.com.au).

The Tax Update newsletter is written in an easy and relaxed style to keep you up-to-date with important tax changes. The March edition is now available for download from the main site.

This issue includes information on:

• Extra time to lodge for those affected by natural disasters
• Declaration of disasters
• Flood Levy proposed
• ATO targeting GST compliance
• 50% Tax Break deduction under new Green Buildings scheme
• ATO looks at limited by guarantee loan arrangement.

This particular newsletter is available for download exclusively for clients (a username and password is required).

I will blog on these issues in the coming weeks. In the meantime, if you are not a client and would like a copy of the March Tax Update – or you do not know your login details - simply email Christie (christie @ lewistaxation.com.au).

To kick off the new year, I asked our staff two questions:

1. Why do you work here? and
2. What are you passionate about?

Now, I’ve worked for a few places in my life where the only response I could honestly submit to the first question would be the fact I needed a job…. whilst remaining passionate about finding one somewhere else.

By asking everyone this I hoped to gain a little insight, ensure the team were getting to do some of what they were passionate about, and finally update the website bio’s.

As I still haven’t had a chance to update the website yet (and the team went to some trouble to complile thoughtful responses), I thought I would share some of what they sent me here on the blog.

Amanda’s story is a good lesson in persistence, confidence and attitude. Amanda is our reception/administration team member and here’s what she had to say:  

If you had told me 18 months ago that I would be working in an accountant’s office I don’t think I would of believed you.

I had just moved from Orange for a sea change and being a one of those people who can’t sit at home and do nothing I started looking for work. After enrolling my almost two year old son in day care full time, the search for work began.

Not being able to work weekends or late at night made job hunting hard, but I was determined to find a job that allowed me to grow as a person as well as expand my knowledge (with an employer who’d understand that with a young child “things” happen). After moving 5 hours away from where I grew up I was sure that I wasn’t going to settle for just any old job. Nine months later I sent off what felt like my 5000th job application to Christie and hoped for the best.

After bugging Christie being persistent in following up my application I got the call for a job interview (which was exciting enough) and then a call that my persistence had paid off. I was offered the job as Director of First Impressions (Receptionist).

Alan Lewis Accountants has given me a chance to work within a new industry, while using my skills of administration and customer service from my previous positions. The first few months were a very steep learning curve, with a new industry and data base to learn.

Alan and Christie have supported me as well as help me grow, and have encouraged my passion for learning and my family. They understand, having children themselves that sometimes things happen and are flexible and encourage a healthy work/life balance. This allows me to be there when I’m needed for my family.

With their support I am 3 months away from finishing my traineeship in Cert 3 in Business Administration, and am currently looking at what other courses I’m interested in completing in the future. Having a life time ahead of me for learning, Alan Lewis Accountants is supporting me in my journey to expand my knowledge and my skills.

Amanda is a great example of knowing what you want and not giving up until you get it  (trust me when I say that ‘persistence’ is putting it mildly…:)). In my own mind, I always thought we would hire someone with a lot more experience behind them (life experience aswell as job experience). Here was someone with no experience in or knowledge of our industry, young, new to the area, and with a young child to care for. Despite this her desire, confidence and attitude shone through so strongly, we knew we had to take a chance . I’m so glad we did.

We all have those days when it’s hard enough to drag ourselves out of bed, much less muster up enthusiasm. In fact, I’ve been having one of those days all this week (blasted flu). If you’re in business for yourself, you don’t always have the luxury of emitting an ’I just want to be home in bed right now’ vibe when customers pop in or clients call. 

Instead, ask yourself this; does my desire for the job show through?  Does my attitude inspire confidence? I’m not suggesting you come accross as desperate or arrogant, but your prospect/client/customer should never doubt that you want and appreciate their business (unlike, of course, you don’t… but that’s a whole other post).  

If you really want it, and are confident you can deliver, don’t be afraid to let it show! 

TaxWise Business News is published each quarter. The Febraury, 2011 issue of TaxWise Business is now available from the main site.

This issue includes the following articles:

 It’s a New Year – time to get your tax affairs in order

 ATO and Government assistance for flood-affected taxpayers

 The flood levy – how it will affect you

 Online shopping – what all the fuss is about

More trouble for trusts – Colonial First State Investments

ATO – firmer action on debt collection.

Remember that you can subscribe to the Enewsletter version of TaxWise Business News to have it emailed to you each quarter. Simply head to the newsletter sign up page or enter your details into the Subscription Box on your right.

Please note that our office will be closed for the holidays from Christmas Eve through to 8:30 am on Monday, 10th January in the New Year.

For urgent matters, email mail@lewistaxation.com.au and  either Alan or Christie will get back to you as soon as possible.

Wishing you all the very best for a wonderful holiday and a safe, happy and successful year ahead!

TaxWise Business News is published each quarter. The latest issue of TaxWise Business is now available from the main site.

This issue includes information on:

- Unpaid Present Entitlements

- Research & Development Bill

- Taxation of Earnouts

- Primary Production Trusts

- Superannuation Stuff

- Cash Economy & Benchmarking

- Compromised TFNs

- Treatment of GIC for Division 7A Purposes.

 Remember that you can subscribe to TaxWise Business News to have it emailed to you each quarter. Simply head to the newsletter sign up page or enter your details into the Subscription Box on your right.

The Tax Update newsletter is written in an easy and relaxed style to keep you up-to-date with important tax changes. The December edition is now availble for download from the main site.

This issue includes information on:

• That ATO’s Major Debit and Credit Card Data Matching Program
• Tips to Keep Track of Your Super Contributions
• High Risk Industries Not Paying Super
• Tax return Blitz Continues for Separated Partents
• ATO Guidelines on Co-owned Rental Properties

This particular newsletter is available for download exclsuively for clients (a username and password is required).

I will blog on these issues in the coming weeks. In the meantime, if you are not a client and would like a copy of the December Tax Update – or you do not know your login details - simply email Christie (christie @ lewistaxation.com.au).

TaxWise Individual News is published twice each year. The latest issue of TaxWise Individual is now available from the main site.

This issue includes information on:

-  The ATO’s 2010/11 Compliance Program

- 4 Step Guide to Return Preparation

- Details of the new Employee Share Scheme rules

- Eligibility for Paid Parental Leave

- ATO’s ruling on UPEs and the obligations of shareholders.

I’ll try to have TaxWise Business News up by next week.

Earlier this year we  asked the question “Is Your Income Protected?”.  If you are serious about protecting your assets, you need to consider this question.

Inability to earn your regular income due to an injury or sickness can be financially devestating for you and your family. Income insurance can provide you with a regular income stream if you become totally disabled
or are recovering from an injury or sickness.

You can be insured for up to 75 per cent of your income (net of any business expenses and before tax). You can also choose to insure 100 per cent of super guarantee contributions (up to 9 per cent).

Income insurance benefits can help pay for day-to-day living expenses such as food, utility bills, rent or home maintenance costs, mortgage or other debt repayments.

Now stop and ask yourself, what would you do if you could not return to work for a long period of time?

Obtaining a quote for income protection insurance is fast, free and simple. Of course, all premiums are fully tax deductable which reduces the premium dramatically.

Contact us today for more details or to get started. Phone 1300 35 22 35 or email Christie (christie @ lewistaxation.com.au). It’s really that simple.

It has been some time since I have written a Practice Update post and there sure are a lot of exciting developments to share.

First of all, our practice has recently relocated to Lake Haven Shopping Centre Business Park (click on the photos to enlarge).

Where we are

Located above ITP and Master Noodle

Just accross from McDonalds

Entrance next to Master Noodle

We are upstairs

The New Office

Front Reception

Comfortable waiting area (not that we plan to keep anyone waiting...!)

Private, spacious new meeting rooms

The move at this time to a new environment was fuelled by significant growth, thanks to the loyalty and support of our client base. The timing of relocation is exactly as predicted in our business plan and the actual space, much larger than we initially anticipated negotiating.

 The  office is 150 sq. metres  to allow for multiple meeting rooms and provide room for future growth.

The office is fully air-conditioned (a nice change from last tax season!) and, of course, there is plenty of parking for clients and visitors in the Shopping Centre car park.

Phone: 1300 35 22 35  

Additional Staff

It is a pleasure to welcome three additional staff members on board.

Amanda

Amanda – Reception

Amanda will primarily hold down the fort at reception, whilst completing a Business Administration Traineeship with the firm.

Amanda already has several years of front-office experience to draw from and we are confident you’ll find her bubbly personality infectious.

Dale

Dale -  Adninistration

Dale is also front of office and responsible for client communication and administration.  

Dale brings over a decade of experience in office management (along with her wonderfully warped sense of humour) to the team.

 

Tara

Tara – Accountant

Tara gained her experience working her way up through the ranks of another Central Coast firm. She has a passion and strong aptitude for the profession to accompany her accounting qualifications.

Tara will be assisting Alan with jobflow, to ensure all work is completed with accuracy and efficiency.

Changing Roles

Until this point, both Alan and myself have handled every aspect of the business from accounting to reception. Going forward, with the addition of more support staff, positions will be more clearly defined so we can all focus on our passions and strengths – we are firm believers you have to love what you do in order to truly excel at it.

Alan

Alan will continue to act as senior accountant and is the Registered Tax Agent.

After a decade in public practice, Alan’s still loves the “hand on” personal interaction with clients (c’mon, you have to appreciate a sociable accountant! ).

Alan’s expertise is in the areas of taxation strategies, accounting and advice to support individuals and small business in reaching their full potential for growth and development.

Christie

My role will be changing to that of Practice Manager/Business Development. What does that mean? In a nutshell,  I’m now charged with the smooth and efficient running of the practice overall. 

At last I can focus my efforts primarily on practice innovation and the education, resourcing and support of our client base!!! I’m pumped!

Strategic Alliances

Wealth Creation Specialists

In another major development, Alan Lewis Accountants has joined forces with 2020 Financial Solutions, whose core aim is to create wealth for clients through strategic financial advice, asset protection and tax minimisation.

The 2020 team is made up of Accountants, Solicitors, Financial Planners, Mortgage Brokers, Superannuation Administrators, Corporate Affairs Specialists, Risk Insurance Brokers & SMSF Specialist Advisors.

This affiliation means we can now offer a  full range of  specialised services and ensure all of your financial strategies are working together in a collaborative environment.

 Enough about us… what’s new with you?

So, that is what has been going on in our business as we head towards the end of another financial year. What developments are occuring within your business?  Do you expect business to improve, slow down or remain steady? What is the most important thing you have learned from the previous year? I’d love to hear your news…