How do I check if a tax agent is registered in Australia?

Search the agent's name or registration number on the Tax Practitioners Board public register and confirm the status is Registered.

Can an unregistered person charge to do my tax return?

No. Only a registered tax agent can charge a fee to prepare a tax return or give tax advice, and only a registered tax or BAS agent can charge for BAS services.

Where do I report a tax scam?

Use the ATO's verify or report a scam page, and report unregistered preparers to the Tax Practitioners Board.

Registered AustraliaTax & BAS agents, registration-checked

Check a tax agent before you hire

Search all 68,014 records in the TPB register file, including 3,529 that are no longer current.

Five checks before you hand over your details

Is the person or firm registered? Only a registered tax agent can charge a fee to prepare your tax return or give tax advice; only a registered tax or BAS agent can charge for BAS services. Check the name or registration number on the TPB public register and make sure the status says “Registered”.
Does the registration match who you are dealing with? Compare the name, business name and suburb with the business card, website or invoice.
Agree the fee and the work in writing before you start, including what happens to any refund.
Your refund should be paid to your own bank account. Be wary of anyone who wants it paid to them, or who promises a bigger refund than you expect.
Never share myGov sign-in details or security codes. A registered agent lodges through their own access; they don’t need your password.

Scam warning signs

Unexpected calls, SMS or emails claiming to be from the ATO or your tax agent, asking you to pay a debt, click a link or confirm details.
Pressure to act now, threats of arrest, or payment by gift card, crypto or bank transfer to an unfamiliar account.
A “tax agent” who isn’t on the TPB register, or whose registration is shown as terminated or not current.

Official help

ATO: Lodge with a registered tax agent
ATO: Current scam alerts and verify or report an ATO scam
TPB: Risks of using unregistered preparers and make a complaint
Scamwatch: ATO and myGov impersonation scams

About “not current” results. The TPB register file includes registrations with statuses such as “Unregistered – Terminated”. We show these only in this check, never as directory listings, so you can avoid paying someone who is no longer allowed to charge for tax work. A status can change after our check date; confirm on the TPB register. General information only, not legal or tax advice.