How to Prepare Your 2025–26 Australian Tax Return

Choose the correct year

The 2025–26 income year ended on 30 June 2026. Do not use the 2026–27 calculator brackets to calculate a completed 2025–26 return: the first taxable resident band is 16% in 2025–26 and 15% in 2026–27. myTax applies the selected return year.

Check your actual lodgement date

Self-prepared individual returns are generally due on 31 October, with the next business day applying when that date is a weekend or public holiday. In 2026, 31 October is a Saturday. Check the due date in ATO online services. Agent schedules differ; using an agent does not automatically give everyone a 15 May deadline.

Wait for reliable records

Check income statements are tax ready and review bank, investment and health insurance information. Prefill is assistance rather than a guarantee of completeness. Compare it against actual records and include other relevant income.

Claim only eligible deductions

An expense must meet the applicable rules and evidence requirements. A written-evidence exception is not a standard allowance. For working from home, verify the rate for the relevant year and retain required records; avoid claiming the same running costs twice.

Review before lodging

Check residency, income, deductions, offsets, Medicare questions and study-loan details. Keep a copy of the lodged return and supporting documents. A take-home pay estimate is not a refund determination and cannot replace the return.

Official guidance

Use ATO tax return guidance or a registered tax agent. The calculator estimates the current income-year scenario only. General educational information, not personal tax advice.