The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is encouraging conveyancers to embrace electronic payments as it moves away from cheques.

Payments through ATO online services are the safest and easiest methods for making payments. Paying online is more secure, as your payments can’t get lost in the mail.

You don’t need to pay by cheque to get extra time. The ATO understands there are occasions when you may experience financial difficulties and are unable to pay by the due date. Whatever your situation, talk to the ATO or your tax or BAS agent early to find a solution.

You can also receive payments electronically directly to your bank account faster and more securely than cheques.

Make sure you include your bank account details on each lodgement so every payment is deposited where you would like it.

If you are still receiving cheques from the ATO it could be because your bank account details need to be updated.  Individuals and sole traders can check and update bank details at any time by signing into their myGov account and businesses can log into Online services for businesses.