The best tax accountants in Canberra

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DFK Everalls, one of Canberra’s most recommended tax accounting firms. Photo: DFK Everalls.

Tax accounting can eat up a lot of time and is confusing if you’re not an expert. So engaging a qualified and experience tax accountant has many benefits. It can also be a great investment.

In engaging a tax accountant, choose one who will put you in the best tax position and ensure you meet all tax law requirements. That includes for individual tax and business tax.

In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a tax accountant, and share where to find the best in Canberra.

What makes a great tax accountant?

Choosing the right tax accountant, who works to professional standards, will strip away your stress at tax time. It can also save you time, money and effort. A great tax accountant will also save you from worrying that you might get your tax wrong and end up paying penalties.

It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a tax accountant.

For individuals

  • Knowledge and expertise. Select a tax accountant who has the knowledge and expertise to save you the most tax. Look online for qualifications, experience and reviews.
  • Effective communication. Your tax accountant should be able to translate complex tax money matters into plain English. They should also be there to answer your questions.
  • Tailored approach. Look for a tax accountant who will assess your situation carefully and provide tailored strategies and solutions.
  • Available. You’ll want a tax accountant who isn’t so busy with other clients that they can’t return your emails or calls. Ask about availability. Also ask about timeframes for getting back to you.
  • Professional and personable. Choose a tax accountant who is professional yet personable. This is someone you’ll be comfortable working with.

For businesses

  • Tailored strategy. Engage a tax accountant who takes the time to understand your business in-depth. This way they can carefully analyse your needs, including for business growth, and tailor the right strategy.
  • Reporting. In business you’ll want regular reporting from your tax accountant, not just once a year at tax time. Ask about how and when your tax accountant reports.
  • Right expertise. If your business needs the full range of tax accounting expertise, choose a tax accountancy that works across several areas. This could include business planning, strategic planning, budgeting and cash flow management. It could also include filing tax returns, succession planning and estate planning.
  • Eye for detail. With accurate tax accounting the devil is in the detail. Great tax accountants are meticulous in crunching numbers.
  • Price. The best tax accountants are fairly priced. They offer value-for-money and don’t overcharge for services.

General tips

  • Accessible. Choose a tax accountant you can contact easily; one who commits to responding to your communications promptly.
  • Timely. It’s important to lodge tax requirements on time, to avoid issues with the Australian Taxation Office. Make sure your accountant is committed to this.
  • Best tax results. Engage a tax accountant who commits to working hard to get you the maximum refund possible.
  • Right qualifications. Select a tax accountant with the right qualifications and professional memberships. Remember that your accountant can only give you tax advice if they’re a bona fide tax agent.

Don’t forget

Depending on your circumstances, you may need to talk to your accountant more than once a year, at tax time. You should check in at key points, such as when:

  • starting, buying or selling a business
  • acquiring or replacing property, plant or other assets
  • planning to expand
  • having problems with creditors, debtors, finance, expenses or stock.

The best tax accountants in Canberra

Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.

To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.

Aero Group

Aero Group works with individuals and businesses that want to grow and maximise their financial potential. The firm specialises in taxation and business advisory services, aiming for “tax made simple”. Aero Group assists clients to perform at a high level across six pillars – grow, tax, wealth, protect, optimise and exit.

Aero Group has an easy-to-use client portal, streamlining the tax process and making it easier. The Group provides in-office tax services, online tax services, free tax assessments, tax checklists and an online tax return calculator.

With each client, work begins with a strong understanding of cores drivers and needs. This way, Aero Group can deliver the best outcomes and support clients to reach their true potential.

Aero Group guarantees that clients pay the least amount of tax legally possible. Each client is assigned a trusted business advisor and mentor, who offer advice in plain English and provide value-for-money and peace-of-mind. Dedicated staff are proactive in keeping clients informed and up-to-date on matters relevant to business and financial health.

Growing businesses, increasing profitability, improving cash flow, protecting assets, creating wealth, being financially organised and developing strategic planning are all part of Aero Group’s service equation. The firm offers great value and services at reasonable prices.

As Craig Shaw wrote on Google, "Justin and the Aero Accounting group are very Professional and always gets the best outcome for their clients."

bennetts tax & bas service

A boutique tax, BAS, accounting and bookkeeping firm in the heart of the city, bennetts tax & bas service offers a good, old fashioned helping hand for busy people.

This team has more than two decades of experience. Known for their proactive, responsive approach, they provide accurate and timely advice designed to help clients maximise profits.

It's all about making taxation and accounting simple and seamless. Services include individual tax returns, business accounting and taxation, tax planning, financial statement compilation, BAS lodgement, general bookkeeping, ASIC compliance, and more.

Additionally, bennetts tax & bas service offers an optional Audit Shield Service, to help guard against unexpected costs if your business (or yourself) is selected for an audit by the ATO.

Whether you are an individual, a small business or other entity, bennetts tax & bas service can help you plan ahead and optimise your tax returns for better financial outcomes.

DFK Everalls

DFK Everalls is a Canberra-based, multifaceted accounting and financial services firm that provides private and business clients with comprehensive financial and strategy tax advice.

What sets DFK Everalls apart is its team of experts. Crossing all financial areas, the team focuses on the big picture and then details the steps required for the best outcomes.

DFK Everalls supports clients to achieve financial goals by increasing income, increasing wealth, reducing risk levels, managing debts and estate planning.

The team helps businesses on many fronts—succession planning, wealth generation, asset protection, self-managed superannuation funds, financial planning, superannuation and finance broking. DFK Everalls’ suite of business advisory services includes profit improvement, cashflow planning, business valuations, risk assessment, and management and value improvement.

The firm provides expert advice in the international arena through its membership in DFK International, the seventh largest worldwide association of independent accounting, tax, legal and business advisory firms.

DFK Everalls’ experienced accountants, bookkeepers, financial planners, brokers and administrative support staff work cohesively for all clients, large and small.

Sandra Lauff wrote on Google, “I’ve been a client of DFK Everalls for probably 25 years. I’m extremely happy with their work ... they respond in a timely manner, and their response is extremely helpful and supportive.”

AdvisorCorp

Founded in 2016, AdvisorCorp offers accounting, taxation and financial services to individuals and businesses. The team of qualified and experienced tax accountants, bookkeepers and mortgage brokers at AdvisorCorp deliver personalised, quality and practical services to clients.

AdvisorCorp’s tax professionals establish collaborative relationships with clients and provide tailored advice. Clients are never treated like numbers. Instead, they’re supported in every way to succeed in today’s complicated tax environment, including through tailored strategies.

The services AdvisorCorp provides are flexible. AdvisorCorp can receive information electronically and communicates in person or by email, phone or video conference. Tax returns can be delivered by email and signed electronically to make matters more efficient.

Click here to book an appointment.

On Google, Melissa Ryan wrote, “As current clients of AdvisorCorp we have continually been delivered the best service and professionalism from the entire team.”

RSM Australia – Tax Services

RSM Canberra is a full-service chartered accountancy firm that helps individuals and businesses with tax needs. Its services include quality advisory, auditing, risk/recovery and financial planning services. RSM Canberra’s tax experts work to get clients the best results. They provide strategic advice on business structure and ensure clients stay on top of tax matters.

Tim Benson wrote on the Riot Act, “Not only does RSM help me with my business and tax, they actively support my business …”

Global Accounting Services

Global Accounting Services specialises in professional and reliable tax services for individuals, those who own investment properties, small businesses, and those with self-managed super funds. The firm also provides tax advice to trusts, companies and partnerships. Global Accounting Services is a registered tax agent with the Australian Taxation Offices. All tax accountants are fully qualified.

On Google, Michael Gower wrote, “Another pleasant and stress-free tax time by using Global Accounting Services.”

If you’re looking for more information on managing your finances, you might like our articles on the best chartered accountants, best financial planners, best business advisors, best auditors, best bookkeepers and the best defined benefit super financial planners Canberra has to offer.

Your experience with tax accountants in Canberra

Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have it wrong, please let us know.

Have you had experience with any of the tax accountants listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly does a tax accountant do?

A tax accountant is a professional who handles bookkeeping and prepares financial documents like profit-and-loss statements, balance sheets and more. They can audit your books, prepare and lodge your tax return, advise on business structure, issue invoices, record sales, handle your payroll, help with profit, loss and forecasting, keep you up-to-date on tax laws and changes, create reports and handle other financial requirements. They can save you time and money.

How do I choose a tax accountant?

When choosing a tax accountant you’ll want one who meets your needs. Some accountants specialise in tax returns for individuals or businesses in a particular industry or in particular areas of tax law. Some tax accountants only work for large firms and others for small to medium businesses. Make sure your accountant is a member of a professional body, like the Institute of Public Accountants or the Certified Practising Accountants Australia. Also, only registered tax agents can prepare and lodge tax returns, so if you need this service make sure your accountant is registered on the Tax Practitioners Board Register. Finally, if you want an accountant who can provide advice about investing or planning for retirement, make sure they have an Australian financial services license.

What do tax accountants charge?

The fees tax accountants charge depends on the type and level of service you require. Some businesses let their accountant handle all of their financial needs. Some business handle certain element inhouse and only use their accountant for specific services. It’s best to talk to your accountant about their fees and payment structure so you don’t get caught off guard. Ask how much they charge and if they’ll take your fee from your tax return.

Do tax accountants need to be formally qualified?

In Australia, tax accountants must be formally qualified and registered. They should beloong to a professional body like the Institute of Public Accountants or the Certified Practising Accountants Australia.

What do I need to do to support my tax accountant to save time and money?

Talk to your accountant about what you can do yourself to save money. Certainly, gathering all required documents, and organising them is one way you can save your accountant time.

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Christine SMITHERS6:38 pm 08 Sep 23

Bennetts Tax accounting is the most efficient, professional accountant you will find in Canberra.
Highly recommended!

Deedee Holland6:16 pm 08 Sep 23

I can highly recommend Diane Bennett from bennetts tax & BAS service. The team have made the whole process so easy – Very responsive to email and phone enquiries. Very easy to talk to – without the jargon or terminology I dont understand.

David Jenkins1:10 pm 04 Jul 21

Credence Accounting in Mawson is very helpful so far. Polite and responsive. Guess the best referral will be from a good tax return.

Have been with these guys for about 20 years! They have been instrumental in where we are today. The personal hands on approach and sound advice is priceless.

RSM is very responsive. Nothing is ever too difficult. They have now been my go to business advisors for over 5 years. I would recommend them to anyone who is after an extremely friendly, timely, and skilled team.

I cannot recommend RSM enough, they have been very diligent in setting up the SMSF vehicle and the ongoing management of my corporate tax, regulatory and property affairs.

We started our company 4 years ago, and RSM Canberra guided us through every step. They have helped us reach our wildest business goals and continue to impress us. We highly recommend RSM for tax and business advice.

I’ve lived, worked and studied in Canberra for the last 40 years. Ever since I’ve been in business, last 20 years, RSM Canberra have been my business advisors and tax accountants. I owned and published Canberra’s business magazine, B2B Magazine, for over a decade and and am now a public relations and business development consultant through my own company Man Bites Dog Public Relations. Not only does RSM help me with my business and tax, but they actively support my business and are still are one of my best clients. RSM Canberra really know Canberra and understand the strange and wonderful ‘bubble’ we all live in. They really fit the Canberra model: a regional firm (33 offices accross Australia) and yet part of the sixth largest firm in the world … fit’s Canberra like a glove.

ScotchAussie7:29 pm 31 Aug 16

Hi Noma,

I don’t know if you’re still looking but others might be I guess …

I’ve just moved this Financial Year to a new Canberra Accountant as I felt the value for $ I was getting at my last accountants was poor and, as a smaller client, their service reflected my importance to them.

My new accountant, National Management Consultants (see https://goo.gl/maps/4GEn2qXvEVL2 for contact details) have been very personable and knowledgeable and for the first time in a while I feel I’m getting not only good value but personal timely service.

Hope that’s a help!

Kind regards, AL.

Sthain said :

Capital Tax Returns – Shaun Canning. He’s located at shop 246 /39 Benjamin Way.
He is friendly and approachable. His rates are very reasonable.
0424 829 129.
http://www.capitaltaxreturns.com.au

Very easy to deal with.

Sthain said :

Capital Tax Returns – Shaun Canning. He’s located at shop 246 /39 Benjamin Way.
He is friendly and approachable. His rates are very reasonable.
0424 829 129.
http://www.capitaltaxreturns.com.au

+1000

Feng said :

angrymonkey said :

Feng said :

justsomeaussie said :

Sergio at Taubenschlag has been great the last 4 years. In the end, you get what you pay for. Pay little, get little.

Sergio is not an accountant. He is simply a registered tax agent… if I may add, Unclear pricing and bad with appointments. Would avoid like a plague.

Don’t know about you, but when I see a tax ‘dude’ (accountant/agent/adviser/whatever) I am not looking for scintillating conversation. I want a boring tax mo-fo who lives and breathes the most boring subject in the world. I have given Sergio my info for years and have always enjoyed the results of his work. No idea what he does on weekends, what he does for laughs, whatever. I don’t care. He doesn’t care about me. He is a tax return processor who knows his shit. I’m happy with that!

Good for you. But when there are so many more capable ACCOUNTANTS who can provide same, if not better level of advice, I would not choose this Sergio guy. The OP is looking for an accountant – That means CPA or CA. Why would I trust someone without a professional accounting accreditation over someone who does? It doesn’t make sense… Plus the other issues I mentioned…

You should go out there and have a look around. You may be surprised what better offers is out there for you.

By the way…Sergio is better qualified than most Tax Accountants in Canberra… He is brilliant.
I don’t think he’s with Taubenschlag anymore…good on him! Taubenschlag has not met minimum standards in my opinion.

Capital Tax Returns – Shaun Canning. He’s located at shop 246 /39 Benjamin Way.
He is friendly and approachable. His rates are very reasonable.
0424 829 129.
http://www.capitaltaxreturns.com.au

justsomeaussie9:00 am 26 Feb 14

Feng said :

You should go out there and have a look around. You may be surprised what better offers is out there for you.

Care to provide some recommendations and expection of prices then? Otherwise who’s to say you aren’t a competitor i.e. a positive recommendation is always better than a negative one.

Feng said :

justsomeaussie said :

Sergio at Taubenschlag has been great the last 4 years. In the end, you get what you pay for. Pay little, get little.

Sergio is not an accountant. He is simply a registered tax agent… if I may add, Unclear pricing and bad with appointments. Would avoid like a plague.

+100 to avoiding like the plague. While I have not dealt with Sergio, my own experiences with Taubenschlag and Associates have been very unpleasant. Unprofessional, unrealiable and unorganised to boot. Have not been back for several years. Will never go back either.

I can bet my bottom dollar on Zarrar (Janjua & Co.) in Holt. He is qualified accountant and chartered tax advisor. I started my business in 1999 and since had issues with ATO resulted from a wrong advice at the time GST came in. I had been to 4-5 accountants form 2000 to 2012 without much help with fixing the problem and then I was referred to him by a friend. It took few months, considering the problem started in 1999, but finally fixed with half of the amount I paid to my last accountant without any results.
He works from home and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. The only negative I can think of him is bit choosy about clients.

angrymonkey said :

Feng said :

justsomeaussie said :

Sergio at Taubenschlag has been great the last 4 years. In the end, you get what you pay for. Pay little, get little.

Sergio is not an accountant. He is simply a registered tax agent… if I may add, Unclear pricing and bad with appointments. Would avoid like a plague.

Don’t know about you, but when I see a tax ‘dude’ (accountant/agent/adviser/whatever) I am not looking for scintillating conversation. I want a boring tax mo-fo who lives and breathes the most boring subject in the world. I have given Sergio my info for years and have always enjoyed the results of his work. No idea what he does on weekends, what he does for laughs, whatever. I don’t care. He doesn’t care about me. He is a tax return processor who knows his shit. I’m happy with that!

Good for you. But when there are so many more capable ACCOUNTANTS who can provide same, if not better level of advice, I would not choose this Sergio guy. The OP is looking for an accountant – That means CPA or CA. Why would I trust someone without a professional accounting accreditation over someone who does? It doesn’t make sense… Plus the other issues I mentioned…

You should go out there and have a look around. You may be surprised what better offers is out there for you.

Feng said :

justsomeaussie said :

Sergio at Taubenschlag has been great the last 4 years. In the end, you get what you pay for. Pay little, get little.

Sergio is not an accountant. He is simply a registered tax agent… if I may add, Unclear pricing and bad with appointments. Would avoid like a plague.

Don’t know about you, but when I see a tax ‘dude’ (accountant/agent/adviser/whatever) I am not looking for scintillating conversation. I want a boring tax mo-fo who lives and breathes the most boring subject in the world. I have given Sergio my info for years and have always enjoyed the results of his work. No idea what he does on weekends, what he does for laughs, whatever. I don’t care. He doesn’t care about me. He is a tax return processor who knows his shit. I’m happy with that!

justsomeaussie said :

Sergio at Taubenschlag has been great the last 4 years. In the end, you get what you pay for. Pay little, get little.

Sergio is not an accountant. He is simply a registered tax agent… if I may add, Unclear pricing and bad with appointments. Would avoid like a plague.

I use Beames & Associates – local Canberra firm and I got my refund fast 🙂

Luke from Achilleus Accounting, … Been using him for personal, investment and commercial stuff for the past 6-7 years.

I can’t go past the accounting firm I was working with until recently – Global Accounting Services http://www.globalaccountingservices.com.au/ They got me and my husband very nice refunds this year and reviewed previous accountant prepared returns to find extra deductions. Very happy.

justsomeaussie5:40 pm 06 Sep 13

Sergio at Taubenschlag has been great the last 4 years. In the end, you get what you pay for. Pay little, get little.

All tax accountants have qualifications in taxation law. It is an essential course of study toward an accounting qualification.

Bill Barlin of Mobile Tax Returns is not just a tax agent but also a solicitor with qualifications in tax law. We find him easy to understand and on the ball with tax issues such as those you mention… his number is 0438 600 615 and he is based northside.

We use Matt at Sleigh PLC, very highly recommended.

http://www.sleigh-pec.com.au/

Madam Cholet1:55 pm 06 Sep 13

National Management Consultants or NMC – Tony Hanrahan. Level 1, Hobart place.
Used him for a couple of years on an RA recommendation. Very happy with my tax returns. This year cost us about $220 each – and we have one investment property to deal with, plus some self funded study etc.

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