Hunter taxpayers are being urged to take their time when lodging their 2026 returns, with a national accounting body warning that rushing early submissions could lead to costly mistakes and increase the risk of falling victim to scams. 

CPA Australia is reminding residents that while the start of tax season often creates pressure to lodge as quickly as possible, waiting until income information is finalised and pre-filled data is available from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) can help avoid errors and delays. 

The organisation’s tax lead Jenny Wong says late July is generally the best time for taxpayers to complete their returns, once key information has been updated. 

“Getting your tax return done early can be tempting, but it’s important not to rush,” she said.

“Waiting until all your income information has been finalised and pre-filled by the ATO will help ensure accuracy and reduce the risk of errors that can trigger reviews or delays.” 

The warning comes as ATO figures show a shift in early lodgement habits, with fewer Australians rushing to submit returns at the beginning of tax season.

Last year, about 2.8 million individual tax returns had been lodged by 22 July with a four per cent decrease compared to the same period the previous year. 

By mid-August, about five million returns were submitted, also slightly down on previous figures.

Ms Wong says the change suggests more taxpayers are taking a cautious approach and waiting until their information is complete. 

The advice follows ATO data revealing more than 595,000 individual tax returns were adjusted last financial year due to issues including missing income, overstated deductions and incorrect claims. 

Taxpayers who lodge before pre-fill information is available are also more than twice as likely to need amendments, according to the ATO.

For Hunter residents preparing their returns, Ms Wong says keeping accurate records and avoiding guesswork when claiming deductions is essential. 

“Taking shortcuts or guessing figures can not only lead to incorrect claims but may also result in having to amend your return later,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.

“Spending a bit more time upfront can save time, stress and potential penalties down the track.”

Alongside the reminder to avoid rushing, taxpayers are being warned to stay alert to a rise in tax-related scams targeting Australians during the busy lodgement period. 

Scammers are increasingly impersonating the ATO or tax professionals through phone calls, emails and text messages in an attempt to steal personal information or money.

“Tax time is a peak period for scam activity,” Ms Wong warned.

“Scammers use email, text messages and phone calls impersonating the ATO or tax agents to trick people into handing over personal information or money.”

Residents are also reminded not to click on unexpected links or provide sensitive information in response to unsolicited messages. 

Instead, they should access official services directly through the ATO website or app, or contact their registered tax agent if they are unsure. 

“With increasingly sophisticated scams, a moment of caution can prevent significant financial harm,” Ms Wong said.

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