Calls, texts, letters and scams: your questions answered
In plain English
The ATO does call, text and email, and so do scammers pretending to be the ATO and its collection agencies. How to tell them apart in a minute, which number to ring back on, and what to say when you do.
Want the full guide?
These are short, direct answers. The complete picture is in ATO letters & notices.
Will the ATO call me about a debt?
Yes. The ATO does phone people about overdue debts , usually after reminders sent through myGov, SMS or post have gone...
Answer →Does the ATO send text messages?
Yes. The ATO sends SMS reminders about overdue lodgements, payments due and payment plans.
Answer →Does the ATO email you about debts?
Yes, the ATO does send emails , but only general ones. Genuine ATO emails come from an address ending in ato.gov.au,...
Answer →Does the ATO call from a private number?
Yes. The ATO confirms that when it phones you, you will not see a number on caller ID.
Answer →Is this ATO call real? How to check in 60 seconds
You can check in about a minute: hang up, open the ATO app and tap verify call, then look at your account in myGov.
Answer →I got a text from recoveriescorp. Is it legit?
It may well be genuine. Recoveriescorp has been engaged by the ATO since 29 January 2024 to contact people about...
Answer →Which ATO number do I call about a debt?
Call 13 11 42. That is the ATO's lodge and pay line, and it covers new and existing debts, payment plans, overdue...
Answer →What to say when you call the ATO about a debt
Open with the facts, then ask for what you want. Something like: "I'm calling about an overdue amount on my account.
Answer →Not sure the letter or the call is genuine?
A specialist can confirm what is real and tell you what the ATO actually wants from you.
ATO scam or real? Letters, emails and texts compared
The ATO does contact people by letter, myGov message, SMS, email and phone, so contact itself proves nothing.
Answer →Does the ATO leave voicemails?
Sometimes. If an ATO officer cannot reach you, they may leave a short message asking you to call back on a published...
Answer →What is an ATO letter of demand?
An ATO letter of demand is a firmer warning letter that says pay in full or contact the ATO by a stated date, or firmer...
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