If you’ve ever lodged a tax return in Australia, chances are you’ve received a Notice of Assessment from the ATO. But what exactly is this document? Is it just another letter from the tax office, or is it something important you need to pay attention to?
Let’s break it down in simple terms, with real-life examples, easy steps, and some expert tips from our trusted accounting partners at Perfect Accounting.
What Is a Notice of Assessment (NOA)?
A Notice of Assessment (NOA) is an official document sent by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) after you lodge your tax return. It tells you:
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How much tax you owe or how much refund you’ll get
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Your taxable income
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How much tax you’ve already paid
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If you have any debt or credit with the ATO
Think of it like your tax summary receipt for the financial year. It’s the ATO’s way of saying: “Thanks for lodging your return, here’s how it all adds up.”
✅ Why You Should Care About It
Here’s a short story:
“James, a 32-year-old tradie in Melbourne, once ignored his Notice of Assessment thinking it was just a formality. A few months later, he found out he owed the ATO over $2,000 – with interest! Had he opened that NOA and sorted it out earlier, he would’ve avoided late fees and stress.”
Your Notice of Assessment isn’t just a piece of paper—it can have financial consequences. Whether you’re due a refund or owe money, it affects your budget, plans, and even your credit if left unattended.
When Will You Receive It?
After you submit your tax return, you’ll usually get your NOA:
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Within 2 weeks if you lodge online using myGov
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Within 6 weeks if you lodge by paper
It will arrive either in your myGov inbox or by post, depending on how you’re set up.
What’s Inside a Notice of Assessment?
Here’s what you’ll typically see:
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Your details – name, TFN, and assessment period
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Taxable income – total income minus deductions
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Tax payable or refundable
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Credits and offsets – such as Low and Middle Income Tax Offset (LMITO)
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Medicare levy or HECS/HELP debt
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Any outstanding tax debts
Here’s a quick peek at a sample NOA provided by the ATO.
Step-by-Step: How to Read and Use Your NOA
Let’s walk through it:
Step 1: Log in to myGov
Head over to your myGov account linked with the ATO.
Step 2: Open the ATO inbox
Your NOA will be there if you chose digital delivery.
Step 3: Review the details
Check for:
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Income reported correctly
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Offsets applied
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Refund or amount owing
Step 4: Cross-check with your records
Make sure what’s on the NOA matches what you lodged.
Step 5: Take action
If you owe money, pay by the due date. If you’re getting a refund, expect it in a few days.
⚠️ What If There’s a Mistake?
Mistakes happen—even the ATO isn’t perfect. If you spot an error, you can:
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Lodge an amendment request via myGov or through your tax agent
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Call the ATO directly at 13 28 61
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Get help from professionals like Perfect Accounting, who specialise in fixing tax return issues quickly and correctly
Pro Tip: Use a Registered Tax Agent
Lodging your return through a registered tax agent means you often get:
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Extended deadlines
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Higher chance of getting maximum deductions
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Peace of mind that your NOA is accurate
That’s where Perfect Accounting comes in. Whether you’re a small business owner, freelancer, or salary earner, they make tax time stress-free.
They’ll even chase the ATO for you if there’s a problem with your NOA—so you don’t have to spend hours on hold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to keep my Notice of Assessment?
Yes. Keep it for at least 5 years. You’ll need it for loans, visas, and future tax returns.
Can I get a second copy?
Absolutely. Just log in to myGov or ask your tax agent.
What if I get a debt I can’t pay?
Contact the ATO or Perfect Accounting to arrange a payment plan.
Why Choose Perfect Accounting?
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✔️ Experienced with ATO matters
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✔️ Fast turnaround
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✔️ No hidden fees
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✔️ Clear advice in plain English
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✔️ Support with tax planning, GST, BAS, and more
“I used to get stressed every tax season, but ever since I started using Perfect Accounting, everything’s under control. They even explained my Notice of Assessment in a way I finally understood.” — Maria, Sydney
Take the Next Step
Don’t get caught off guard. Whether you’ve just received your Notice of Assessment or you’re about to lodge your return, it’s smart to get expert help.
Visit Perfect Accounting today and book your tax consultation.
Understand your NOA. Avoid costly mistakes. And get the most from your tax return—with confidence.
