What Is a Notice of Assessment? ATO Tax Outcome Explained
Book a Free DemoNotice of Assessment
Recognises income and expenses when they’re earned or incurred, not when cash changes hands. Required for larger businesses.
A Notice of Assessment (NoA) is an official document issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) after you lodge your tax return. It outlines your tax outcome — whether you owe money, are due a refund, or have no tax payable.
Every individual, sole trader, and company who lodges a tax return will receive a Notice of Assessment, either by mail or electronically.
What the Notice of Assessment Includes
- Taxable income
- Total tax payable
- Tax withheld (e.g. from wages)
- Medicare levy and other levies
- Offsets and credits applied
- Final result: refund, debt, or nil
- Payment due date (if applicable)
It also shows your document identification number (DIN) and may reference previous balances.
When You’ll Receive It
- Usually within 2–14 days of lodging your return
- Sent to your myGov account, tax agent, or by post
- For companies, it’s sent to the registered tax contact
Keep this document for at least 5 years — it may be needed for loans, grants, or future tax reviews.
How to Read the Notice
| Section | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Taxable Income | Income after deductions |
| Tax Payable | Total tax based on your income |
| Credits/Offsets | Pre-paid tax (e.g. PAYG withholding, tax offsets) |
| Net Result | What you owe or get back |
Refund vs Amount Owing
- Refund: ATO will transfer funds to your nominated bank account
- Owing: You must pay the amount by the due date, or risk interest charges and penalties
You can also set up a payment plan via the ATO if needed.
How Ozobooks Helps
- Interprets and explains your Notice of Assessment
- Checks for errors or missing deductions
- Assists with setting up ATO payment plans
- Reconciles your tax payments in accounting software
- Advises on future tax planning based on your NoA
FAQ
Q1: Is the Notice of Assessment the same as a tax refund?
No. The NoA tells you whether you’re getting a refund — but it’s not the refund itself.
Q2: What if I disagree with my NoA?
You can request an amendment or lodge an objection with the ATO. Ozobooks can help review it first.
Q3: Do I get one every year?
Yes — for every year you lodge a tax return.
Q4: Can I access past notices?
Yes — via myGov, your tax agent, or by calling the ATO.