Learn how to lodge your BAS and IAS from QuickBooks directly to the ATO.
Connecting QuickBooks Online with the ATO will create a secure channel for sharing information, but the ATO can only access what is lodged with them directly.
Connecting to the ATO can be done by calling the ATO directly, or through the ATO Access Manager.
- To authorise via phone, all you need is your tax file number and software ID which can be found inside QuickBooks Online.
- To authorise via the ATO Access Manager, you will need a myGovID linked to your business via the ATO's Relationship Authorisation Manager. For more information, visit the ATO website.
Select the Connect the ATO button in the upper right hand corner of the GST centre in QuickBooks, which will provide instructions on how to authorise QuickBooks to lodge your BAS with the ATO.
- Note that you have to be an admin, non-accountant user to enable BAS electronic lodgement in QuickBooks.
Connecting QuickBooks Online with the ATO via phone
This is the fastest option to get connected:
- Call 1300 85 22 32.
- Follow the instructions for nominating a software provider.
- Enter your tax file number.
- Tell the agent you need to add a new hosted service with Exactor*, ABN 61 612 826 605.
- Provide your software ID (found in QuickBooks inside the Connect to the ATO screen) to the ATO agent.
- Back in QuickBooks, tick the I've set up the ATO connection box and select Next.
*QuickBooks has partnered with Exactor to enable electronic lodgement of BAS directly from QuickBooks for Australian customers.
Connecting QuickBooks Online with the ATO via the ATO Access Manager
To authorise QuickBooks as your software provider with the ATO via the ATO Access Manager:
- Go to ATO Access Manager.
- Sign in to the ATO Access Manager using your MyGovID.
- On the left of the dashboard, choose My Hosted SBR Software Services.
- Select Notify the ATO of your hosted service.
- Select Exactor* from the list of software service providers.
- Enter your software ID (found in QuickBooks inside the Connect to the ATO screen) and select Next.
- Review the information and select Save.
- Back in QuickBooks, select the I've set up the ATO connection box, then Next.
*QuickBooks has partnered with Exactor to enable electronic lodgement of BAS directly from QuickBooks for Australian customers.
Once you've set up electronic lodgement, it's time to lodge your first BAS! Learn how to lodge a BAS.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I have to authorise QuickBooks? The ATO requires all business owners to report and use only certified software providers for electronic filing.
Who is Exactor?
QuickBooks is partnering with Exactor to allow electronic filing of BAS, so only by authorising them are users able to lodge electronically. Think of Exactor as the 'pipes' between QuickBooks and the ATO.
What am I authorising exactly?
Authorisation only enables QuickBooks to lodge electronically, and download instalment amounts. The ATO will only be provided information when a lodgement is made.
Where do I input by BAS agent details?
QuickBooks currently enables self-service BAS Electronic lodgement for Small Business owners only at this time. Technically, once QuickBooks has been authorised, accountant users can lodge for the small and medium business (SMB) from QuickBooks, but we recommend BAS Agents continue to use their current electronic lodgement process if they are required to identify themselves as the processing agent at this time.
Why don't I see the option to connect to the ATO?
If you're a QuickBooks Online Accountant user trying to enable electronic lodgement for your client, you won't be able to see the option to connect to the ATO, as the process to enable electronic lodgement must be done by the owner of the business.
Another reason why you may be unable to connect could be that electronic lodgement has already been enabled in the past, or your QuickBooks Online company is yet to be migrated to the current GST experience. Contact our support team if you need further assistance with this.
