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2008 media releases

Do-it-yourself tax refunds
17 October 2008

People wanting to find out if they're due a tax refund from Inland Revenue can check with just a few easy steps.

Inland Revenue Group Manager Assistance, David Udy, said some people may not realise that they can check their tax status and request a refund themselves.

"People may think they need an accountant or a specialist service if they want to find out about a possible refund, but we've ensured it is something people can do for themselves without the need for a third party," he said.

Mr Udy said there are some simple steps people can follow to find out if they've paid the right amount of tax, are due a refund, or have tax to pay.

An online personal tax summary calculator can be found on the Inland Revenue website at www.ird.govt.nz. People can also register for Look at Account information on the website, to check the details the department has about their income.

Another way of checking income is by ringing 0800 257 773 to request a personal tax worksheet, or 0800 257 778 to ask for a summary of earnings. The summary shows income and tax deduction details for the year, based on a person's employment, benefit or pension information.

Mr Udy said there were many reasons why a customer may have overpaid or underpaid tax during the year.

A person could be eligible for a refund if, for example, they didn't work a full year, had more than one job during the year, or have expenses to claim.

On the other hand, Mr Udy said they might owe tax if some of their income during the year has not been recorded by the department - for example, from investment dividends.

"Once people have worked out whether they owe money, or are due a refund, they can choose whether to contact us. It is entirely up to the customer."

If a person wants to claim a refund, they tell Inland Revenue the details of their income, and request a personal tax summary either through the website, or by calling 0800 257 444.

"If they are entitled to a refund, they will be paid," said Mr Udy.

He said Inland Revenue was keen to ensure that people knew how to check their income and tax status, and work out if they were due a refund. "People can do it for themselves, and there is no need to pay a third party. Of course, that choice is up to the customer."

Ends

For more information:
Adrienne Perry
04 890 1698
029 890 1698
Adrienne.perry@ird.govt.nz

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Corporate Affairs
Inland Revenue

To make a media query:
Phone 04 890 1698 or email mediaqueries@ird.govt.nz
Please note, the email address is only for enquiries from the news media. It is monitored during normal business hours 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday.

P O Box 2198
Wellington 6140
New Zealand


Date published: 17 Oct 2008

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