It is generally understood that for fringe benefits tax (FBT) to apply, the benefits paid are usually in respect of an employment relationship. In other words, a ‘payment’ (other than salary or wages) made, or benefit provided, to somebody because they are an employee.
Tasmania’s economy has grown equal-second fastest in Australia in the December 2015 quarter – equal with New South Wales (0.6%) and second only to Victoria (0.8%) – according to state final demand Trend figures released by the Australia Bureau of Statistics (ABS) this week. Seasonally adjusted figures also show solid growth (0.7%), placing Tasmania fourth in the nation behind Victoria (1.2%), NSW (1.1%) and the ACT (1.0%).
Yesterday, 29 February 2016, Parliament passed legislation that will allow small businesses to change their legal structure without attracting a capital gains tax (CGT) liability at that time.
Since July this year, scams targeting both individual and business taxpayers have been running rife.
From fake Tax Office “delayed return” or “proof of identity” emails to telephone calls conveying similar requests, taxpayers have had to keep their guard up. So how can individuals and businesses protect themselves from online fraud and crime?
Your business can claim website development and maintenance costs under various tax rules.
As a business owner you probably know by now that you need a website; whether to display your credibility, ensure you are accessible, target a wider audience, showcase your work or transact with your customers. Since most consumers now search online before making a purchase decision, a professional-looking site is important.
Running a successful small business sometimes requires an up-skilled team. If you need your employees to grow their expertise in a particular area, spotting them for short-courses, seminars, one-day intensives, professional qualifications or a bunch of “101s” can be a worthwhile endeavour.
Are you a company director? Better brush up on your responsibilities!
Company directors need to keep in mind that the Corporations Act holds directors personally liable for many of the legal and financial obligations expected from a company.
It’s something of a little white lie, isn’t it? — the one told to aspiring small business owners and entrepreneurs that hard work guarantees success.
Hard work is vital, but it’s not the only quotient.
The concept of the “going concern” exemption for GST purposes can still cause confusion when businesses are sold, despite the fact this exemption has been in place for many years.
A “going concern” refers to an enterprise’s ability to continue trading, with the sale of that business generally eligible to be GST-free if the enterprise is deemed as such.
While it might be a tough topic to broach, it is inevitable that someday you will leave your business. You can’t know whether you’ll sell up, retire or leave due to health reasons, so is important that you prepare yourself for any eventuality.
