Home-Based tax agent for individuals and sole traders

Employees with work-related expenses, sole traders, contractors, landlords and people with shares or crypto who want it done properly.

Fixed fee per return, with extra fees for rental properties, sole trader schedules or catching up late lodgements. Busiest from July to October, with steadier work from ongoing clients.

• Solid knowledge of Australian tax rules
• Careful with detail and deadlines
• Explaining tax in plain language

• You generally need to be registered with the TPB to charge a fee for preparing tax returns, check current rules before taking any paid work
• Professional indemnity insurance, which the TPB may require for registration
• Ongoing professional education and a code of conduct apply to registered agents
• Keeping client data secure and meeting privacy obligations
• Check with your local council whether running a business from home needs approval

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on software, insurance, registration and your home office setup. Check current fees and requirements for each item to get a more accurate figure.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your client numbers, fees and the time you put in. Work tends to be heavier around lodgement periods, so earnings may vary across the year.

You generally need to be registered with the TPB to charge a fee for preparing tax returns, so check current rules before taking paid work. Also check professional indemnity insurance, ongoing education and code of conduct duties, privacy obligations, and any council approval for home businesses.