ATO text messages re bank account

The ATO has advised that it will send SMS text messages directly to taxpayers where incorrect bank account details were included in their tax returns and they were entitled to a refund.

The SMS will advise impacted taxpayers that:

• Their refund cannot be processed due to incorrect bank account details.
• They should phone the ATO on 13 28 61 to correct their details.

If impacted taxpayers contact the ATO with their correct details within seven days, any refund due will be issued electronically.

Please exercise additional caution when dealing with electronic messaging from the ATO. The ATO is reminding taxpayers that they will never:

• Demand immediate payments.
• Threaten them with arrest.
• Request payment by unusual means, such as iTunes vouchers, store gift cards or Bitcoin cryptocurrency.

If you are suspicious about a phone call from someone claiming to be the ATO, then you should disconnect and call the ATO on 132 861 or call your Kothes accountant to confirm the status of your tax affairs and verify the call.