Choosing a BAS accountant is one of the most important decisions a small business owner can make. Whether you’re a sole trader managing your own books or running a growing company with employees, ensuring your Business Activity Statement (BAS) is lodged correctly and on time can save you from penalties, stress, and missed opportunities.
But how do you choose the right BAS accountant? In this guide, we walk you through what to look for, what to avoid, and how to make the best decision for your business.
Why Choosing the Right BAS Accountant Matters
Hiring a qualified and experienced BAS accountant isn’t just a compliance issue—it’s a strategic business move. Here’s why:
✅ Key Benefits of Choosing the Right BAS Accountant:
- ATO Compliance: Avoid penalties and interest for late or incorrect BAS lodgements
- Accurate GST and PAYG Reporting: Ensure all numbers add up, and all obligations are met
- Financial Clarity: Better bookkeeping and reconciliation for cash flow forecasting
- ATO Representation: Registered BAS agents can liaise directly with the ATO on your behalf
- More Time to Run Your Business: Let the experts handle the numbers
A good BAS accountant can become a long-term financial partner, helping you make smarter business decisions.
Understanding BAS Accountant Qualifications
Before you trust someone with your business finances, it’s crucial to understand what makes them qualified to lodge BAS statements.
📄 What Is a Registered BAS Agent?
A registered BAS agent is a professional authorised by the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) to prepare and lodge Business Activity Statements and offer GST and PAYG services for a fee.
🎓 Key Qualifications Required:
To be registered, a BAS accountant must:
- Hold a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping (or higher)
- Have at least 1,400 hours of relevant supervised experience
- Maintain Professional Indemnity Insurance
- Meet ongoing Continuing Professional Education (CPE) requirements
- Comply with the TPB Code of Professional Conduct
You can verify their registration through the TPB Register.
Steps to Choose the Right BAS Accountant
Finding the right professional isn’t just about checking qualifications. It’s also about finding someone who understands your business and communicates well.
✔️ Step 1: Search for Registered BAS Agents
- Start with the TPB register to ensure they are legally allowed to offer BAS services
- Use local directories like Finistry.com.au to find BAS accountants near you
- Avoid using unregistered bookkeepers to lodge BAS—it’s illegal
✔️ Step 2: Check Their Industry Experience
- Ask if they have worked with businesses similar to yours (e.g. sole traders, retail, trades, eCommerce)
- Look for experience in your specific industry to ensure they understand its unique compliance challenges
- Inquire about how long they’ve been providing BAS services
✔️ Step 3: Ask About Their Software Expertise
Most BAS agents work with cloud accounting platforms. Check if they use:
- Xero (Xero-certified advisor status is a bonus)
- MYOB
- QuickBooks
- Reckon or Sage
Make sure they can work with your existing system or recommend a suitable one.
✔️ Step 4: Understand the Services They Offer
Not all BAS accountants offer the same range of services. Ensure they cover:
- BAS preparation and lodgement
- GST reconciliation and reporting
- PAYG withholding and PAYG instalments
- Superannuation tracking and STP reporting
- Amendments and resubmissions for past BAS
- ATO correspondence and representation
Some may also offer general bookkeeping, payroll, or business advisory services.
✔️ Step 5: Compare Pricing and Billing Structures
BAS agents charge in different ways:
- Hourly rate (e.g. $70 to $150/hr)
- Fixed-price packages (e.g. $150-$400 per quarter)
- Bundled services (e.g. BAS + bookkeeping + payroll for a monthly fee)
Get a detailed quote and ask about:
- Scope of services included
- Additional fees (e.g. for amendments or late lodgements)
- Payment terms (monthly, quarterly, pay-as-you-go)
✔️ Step 6: Review Testimonials and References
- Look at Google reviews and social media feedback
- Ask for client referrals or case studies
- Check their website for testimonials
- Avoid agents with no digital presence or vague online information
Where to Find a BAS Agent Near You
You don’t have to search blindly. Here are the best places to find a registered BAS agent:
📍 Online Directories
- Finistry.com.au — Australia’s directory for financial professionals
- Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) Register
- Local business directories like Yellow Pages, OneFlare, and Hipages
💬 Referrals
- Ask other business owners in your industry
- Get recommendations from your accountant or bookkeeper
🌎 Social Media
- Facebook business groups
- LinkedIn professional communities
- Reddit forums like r/AusFinance or r/smallbusiness
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a BAS Accountant
Make sure you’re hiring someone you can trust. Ask these questions during your consultation:
- Are you a registered BAS agent with the TPB?
- How long have you been lodging BAS for businesses like mine?
- Are you experienced with my accounting software?
- What does your fee structure look like?
- Do you provide GST advice or just lodge what I send?
- Can you represent me in case of an ATO audit or review?
- What’s your turnaround time for BAS preparation and lodgement?
- Will I have a dedicated point of contact or work with a team?
- Do you offer catch-up services for overdue BAS?
- Do you assist with superannuation and payroll as well?
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Sometimes it’s not who to choose, but who to avoid. Here are common warning signs:
- ⚠️ Not TPB registered: They can’t legally charge for BAS services
- ⚠️ No clear service scope: Unclear about what’s included or excluded
- ⚠️ No experience in your industry: May overlook key compliance details
- ⚠️ Delayed responses: Poor communication is a red flag
- ⚠️ Overly aggressive promises: Guarantees of refunds or zero GST without review
- ⚠️ No online presence or reviews: Harder to vet their reputation
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Do I need a registered BAS agent to lodge my BAS?
Yes, if you’re paying someone to lodge your BAS, they must be registered with the Tax Practitioners Board.
❓ How do I check if someone is a registered BAS agent?
Use the TPB register and search by name or ABN.
❓ What’s the difference between a BAS agent and a tax agent?
A BAS agent handles GST, PAYG, and activity statement lodgements. A tax agent can also handle income tax returns, tax planning, and broader financial services.
❓ Can a bookkeeper lodge my BAS?
Only if they are also a registered BAS agent. If not, they can prepare your books but cannot legally lodge your BAS.
❓ How much should I expect to pay for BAS services?
- Simple businesses (quarterly BAS): $150 – $300 per quarter
- More complex structures (monthly BAS + payroll): $300 – $600/month
- Pricing varies based on complexity, frequency, and included services
Conclusion: Choose Wisely and Save Yourself the Headache
A BAS accountant isn’t just a compliance necessity—they’re a trusted advisor who helps keep your business finances on track. From avoiding costly penalties to giving you peace of mind, the right BAS accountant is an investment, not an expense.
When choosing one:
- Always verify their TPB registration
- Ask about their industry experience and software proficiency
- Ensure transparency in pricing and services
- Use platforms like Finistry.com.au to browse qualified, reviewed professionals
🔍 Start your search today at Finistry.com.au and connect with trusted BAS accountants near you.
Leave a Reply