Online tax return service for individuals

Employees with work-related deductions, people with side income, rental property owners and young workers who want a hassle-free return.

A fixed fee per return, with extra fees for rental properties, shares or sole trader income. Returning clients each year build a base over time.

• Individual tax knowledge
• Accuracy with numbers
• Clear email and phone communication
• Comfortable with online tools

• You generally need to be a registered tax agent to charge a fee for preparing returns, check with the Tax Practitioners Board
• Professional indemnity insurance and continuing education requirements
• Handling identity documents and tax file numbers needs strong data security
• Income is very seasonal, so quiet months are likely
• Never promise refunds, as claims must be genuine and backed by records

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on software, insurance, registration and secure systems for handling client documents. Being online means you may not need premises.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many clients you take on and your fees. Income is very seasonal, with the busiest period from July to October and quieter months likely.

Check with the Tax Practitioners Board, as you generally need to be a registered tax agent to charge a fee. Also check professional indemnity insurance, education requirements and data security. Never promise refunds, as claims must be genuine and backed by records.