Yes, outstanding income tax returns can be prepared for previous years. First establish which years require lodgement and collect the information relevant to each year. Contact a tax practitioner rather than assuming the oldest records are no longer needed.
What this means in practice
Start with ATO correspondence, income records, bank statements and evidence of expenses. Rates and rules can differ between years, so the return must be prepared for the relevant period. If records are missing, discuss the evidence available and the next steps. Penalties, payment arrangements or remission are separate issues and are not automatic.
Your next steps
- List the outstanding years
- Gather ATO correspondence
- Separate records by income year
- Agree a preparation plan
Get help with the next step
If this relates to your business, tell us about your current records and the task you need help with. We can explain our service scope and the information needed before work starts.
Official guidance: ATO: Income and deductions ↗
General information prepared on 26 September 2026. Rules and individual circumstances can change. Confirm the treatment that applies to you before acting.
Prepared by the Affordable Bookkeeper content team. Our services and practitioner arrangements.
