The Australian Tax Office (ATO) began a campaign in recent years that targeted small businesses with a cash economy. The effort was to reintroduce billions of dollars into the tax system that otherwise were going undeclared. That meant more audits of small businesses including those who operate in carpentry, electrical, building trades, road freight, and many more. This year, there is a renewed effort to focus on restaurants, cafes, and nail and beauty salons.
Why Go After Small Businesses?
These types of businesses are where the black cash economy thrives, which presents a challenge for tax agencies. It can also impact competition when one business operates legally and another does not. According to senior assistant commissioner Michael Hardy, “These 275,000 businesses potentially represent unfair competition for the honest businesses in their industries.”
As credit cards and EFTPOS purchases become more prominent, cash is still the key payment option for low-value purchases. In fact, it is estimated that 70% of transactions that were under $20 use cash.
How Big is the Illegal Cash Economy?
The illegal cash economy may be much bigger than you think. The ATO reported that an estimated 1.6 million businesses, a majority of which fall under the micro and small business category, that operate in 233 industries belong to the illegal cash economy.
As a result, ATO officers have focused on these types of businesses by visiting locations in Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Gold Coast, and other regions in Australia. They are also equipped with Asian language skills to ensure that a communication barrier does not cause issues during audits and visits.
According to ATO statistics, 58% of hair and beauty salons and 45% of cafes, restaurants, and takeaway businesses only accept cash from customers.
The efforts paid off between 2015 and 2016 as the ATO scrutinised 127,000 businesses, performed 15,000 audits, and raised more than $208 million in penalties and taxes.
Paying Your Fair Share
Even businesses who have been getting away with participating in the illegal cash economy for years should consider changing their ways. Over 5,500 workers dob in their bosses annually for paying them with “cash in hand.” A public dob-in phone line was made available so that workers can anonymously report their employers.
There’s no time like the present. Now is a better time than any to make sure you have your financial records in order. Don’t let an audit ruin your business. We’re here to help ensure that you are aware of and meeting tax obligations for your business. Get in touch with us here or give the office a call on 07 5598 3800, to discuss your small business tax needs.
