Tax time survival guide: EOFY tips and tools to help you stay on track

Two people discussing tax time strategies while reviewing information on a laptop at a white table.
Therese McGrath
Therese McGrath, Chief Financial Officer
Reviewed: 06 Jan 2026
Read time: 5 min

Tax time can be busy, especially if you’re self-employed or running a small business. Between sorting receipts and lodging returns, it’s also a prime time for scammers to target unsuspecting individuals. This guide brings together practical tips to help you prepare for EOFY and stay safe from tax-related scams.

Your EOFY prep checklist

Getting organised early can help make tax time smoother and less stressful. Here are seven ways that can help you to stay on top of your tax obligations:

Icon of a calendar with a checkmark and a dollar sign, representing planning ahead for important tax deadlines.

1. Know the key dates

Add important tax deadlines to your calendar so you’re not caught off guard. Planning ahead gives you time to gather documents and avoid last-minute stress.
Icon of a computer screen displaying charts and graphs, symbolizing the use of accounting software for tracking income and expenses.

2. Consider accounting software

Using an online filing system can help you track income and expenses, reduce paperwork and potentially lower accountant costs. Not sure where to start? Several government sites offer guidance on choosing accounting software.
Icon of a computer screen with writings, indicating tools for expense tracking and financial organization.

3. Use supporting tools

Apps for receipt scanning and expense tracking can help you stay organised throughout the year. Recording transactions as you go means less work when tax time arrives.
Icon of a stack of documents with a checkmark, representing regular review and updating of financial records.

4. Make time each week

Consider setting aside an hour weekly to review your accounts. Keeping records up to date can save you time and headaches later.
Icon of a person wearing a tie, symbolizing professional assistance from a tax expert or accountant.

5. Don’t rule out professional help

A tax professional can help ensure your return is accurate, compliant and includes all eligible deductions. Even a final review can make a big difference.
Icon of a document with a dollar sign and magnifying glass, indicating learning and understanding tax basics and resources.

6. Get tax savvy

Even if you use an accountant, it’s worth understanding the basics. The ATO offers free resources and there may be local workshops to help you learn more about your obligations.
Icon of a calendar with a checkmark, representing scheduling an end-of-financial-year appointment to stay on track.

7. Think with the end in mind

Book your EOFY appointment early. Having a set date helps you stay accountable and on track.
Icon of a binocular, symbolizing vigilance and awareness to spot scams.

Scam awareness tips

Scammers often ramp up activity around tax time. Here’s how to spot the warning signs and protect your personal information.

Common scam tactics

  • Email scams: Fake messages pretending to be from the ATO or myGov, often with links to counterfeit login pages.
  • Phone scams: Calls threatening legal action or demanding immediate payment.
  • SMS scams: Texts claiming to be about your tax return, often linking to fake websites.
  • Too-good-to-be-true offers: Promises of large refunds or investment opportunities with unrealistic returns.
  • Charity cons: Fake donation requests offering bogus tax receipts.
  • Phantom investments: Scams targeting last-minute EOFY decisions with high-pressure tactics.
  • AI scams: From voice cloning and deepfake videos to hyper-targeted phishing emails, AI scams are designed to feel authentic. And that’s what makes them so dangerous.

6 ways to stay safe

1. Stay on top of communications

Double-check emails, texts and calls. Hover over links and email addresses to verify authenticity. If something feels off, don’t click.

2. Secure your inbox

Use email services with spam filters and security features to block phishing attempts.

3. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a one-time code in addition to your password.

4. Ignore scare tactics

The ATO won’t threaten you or demand immediate payment. If in doubt, contact them directly through official channels.

5. Use official payment platforms

Only pay tax debts through secure government portals. Avoid requests for payment via cryptocurrency or gift cards.

6. Check government resources

The ATO website is your go-to for accurate information. If you’re unsure, start there.

Tools and resources

ATO website
Official tax information, key dates and scam alerts
MoneySmart
Budgeting and financial planning tools
myGov
Secure access to your tax and government services
Scamwatch
Updates on current scams and how to report them

Need help navigating tax time?

The Pepper Money security hub offers resources and support to help you stay organised and financially secure. Whether you’re preparing for EOFY or protecting yourself from scams, we’re here to help.
Therese McGrath - Pepper Money Chief Financial Officer

Contributor | Therese McGrath, Chief Financial Officer

Therese brings over 25 years of international experience in finance, strategy, and operations. She joined Pepper Money in January 2018 as Chief Financial Officer. In this role, she provides the leadership and financial and operational management necessary to ensure Pepper Money achieves its strategic goals and objectives. Read more.

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