How to Set up the Online Services for Business Portal

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Previously known as the ATO Business Portal, Online Services for Business is a government portal used by business owners to manage their compliance and taxation obligations. 

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What can I use Online Services for Business for?

While your accountant might be taking care of your BAS and tax returns, the Online Services for Business is a great way to keep your finger on the pulse of what is happening behind the scenes with your business and track your own ATO account. 

Some of the activities you can do on the portal include:

• Manage your activity statements. Including viewing and revising previous statements.
• Manage your tax returns. Including viewing and revising previously lodged returns. 
• View any owing balances and manage payment plans.
• Monitor Single Touch Payroll (STP) reports.
• Manage your GST and PAYG registrations and accounting method.
• Use the Small Business Superannuation Clearing House to pay your employer superannuation guarantee to any eligible employees. 

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Setting up Online Services for Business

If you already have myGovID and have linked your identity to your business’s ABN, jump to step 3. 

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Step 1: myGovID

Before you can access Online Services for Business, you’ll need to have myGovID. myGovID is your online identity and is used to identify you when you log in to certain government online services, such as the Online Services for Business.

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If you don’t already have myGovID, it’s simple to get started. See the steps below:

1. Download the myGovID app from your smartphone’s app store. 
2. Enter your personal details.
3. Choose the identity strength. You can choose from Basic, Standard or Strong level of identity. (For Online Services for Business, Standard identity strength is required. However, Strong is needed to link your business online in the next step). If you proceed with Standard, you will need to verify two of the following identity documents, ensuring the personal details you entered match those on the documents. For Strong, you must have a passport:

• Driver’s licence.
• Passport.
• Birth certificate.
• Visa (using your foreign passport).
• Citizenship certificate.
• ImmiCard.
• Medicare card.

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Step 2: Use RAM (Relationship Authorisation Manager) to link your business to your myGovID

If you are the business owner or person responsible for the business, you are eligible to link your myGovID to your business’s ABN. Please note, if you do not have Strong identity level on myGovID, you will not be able to link your business online. Please call 1300 287 539 instead.  

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To link your business online, follow the steps below:

1. Log in to RAM.
2. Click on Link my business and enter your address when prompted. 
3. Select the business you want to link and select Continue. (If your business is not listed, you will need to check and update your ABR details).
4. Enter your email address (this does not need to be the email address used when setting up your online identity.) and select Send email to receive a verification code.
5. After verification, view the summary of your business and tick the checkbox to declare you understand and accept, then select Submit.

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Step 3: Log in to Online Services for Business

You’re now ready to log in to Online Services for Business!

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Each time you log in, you’ll need to confirm your identity using the myGovID app. You simply type your email address in once prompted through the Online Services for Business website, then follow the instructions entering the code displayed on your screen into your myGovID app. 

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We’re here to help

While setting up Online Services for Business is relatively simply, navigating the complexities of tax returns, BAS, and other reporting obligations can be a challenging and time-consuming endeavor. Our team is dedicated to providing expert assistance and tailored solutions to ensure your financial compliance and peace of mind. If you're looking for reliable support and guidance, please reach out to us. Let us simplify the process for you and help you achieve financial success.

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