How to File Your Tax Return Online with ATO Step by Step (2025)

Published: 11 November 2025 • Read time: 12 minutes

Filing tax returns online with ATO in 2025 is simpler than ever. Here’s the full process.

Every year, millions of Australians lodge their tax returns through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Thanks to ATO’s myTax online system, the process in 2025 is straightforward if you know the steps. This guide explains how to file your tax return online, what documents you need, and how to avoid common mistakes.

1. Step 1: Prepare your documents
2. Step 2: Log in to myGov and link ATO
3. Step 3: Use pre-fill information
4. Step 4: Add deductions and offsets
5. Step 5: Review and submit
6. Step 6: Track your return and refund
7. FAQs

Step 1: Prepare your documents

Before logging in, gather these:

• PAYG summaries or income statements from employers.
• Bank interest statements.
• Private health insurance details.
• Receipts for work-related expenses, donations, study costs.
• Rental property income and expenses if applicable.

Step 2: Log in to myGov and link ATO

Create or log in to your myGov account. Link it to the ATO. This gives access to myTax, ATO’s online lodgment tool.

Step 3: Use pre-fill information

By July, the ATO has most of your data (income, bank interest, private health). Always check that details are correct before continuing.

Step 4: Add deductions and offsets

This is where you can reduce your taxable income:

• Work-related expenses (tools, uniforms, training).
• Home office expenses (ATO provides fixed-rate method).
• Donations to registered charities.
• Self-education expenses.

Only claim legitimate expenses. Keep digital or physical records for five years.

Step 5: Review and submit

Check every field before submitting. Once you hit “Lodge”, you’ll get confirmation and a receipt number.

Follow ATO’s online flow step by step to reduce errors and maximise refunds.

Step 6: Track your return and refund

You can check the progress under “Tax Return” in myGov. Most refunds arrive within two weeks if no extra checks are required.

Need help lodging?

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Online lodgment saves time, but accuracy is key to faster refunds.

FAQs

When is the deadline to lodge?

31 October 2025 if lodging yourself. Later if using a registered tax agent.

How long does the refund take?

Typically 2 weeks, but can be longer if ATO needs to verify details.

Do students need to lodge?

Yes, if you earned income. Even if below tax-free threshold, you may get withheld tax refunded.

What if I make a mistake?

You can amend your return online after lodgment via myGov/ATO.

Next reads: Ultimate Guide to Tax Deductions • Best Tax Software 2025

General information only. Check ATO website or consult a tax agent for personalised advice.