Time is running out for employers to apply for the superannuation guarantee (SG) amnesty and catch up on past unpaid super, without incurring a penalty or paying administration fees.
The ATO is encouraging employers to apply for the amnesty and make payments as early as they can. Any amnesty amounts paid before 7 September 2020 are tax deductible.
For you or your clients to participate in the amnesty, the ATO must receive applications by 11.59pm local time, on 7 September 2020. Once the applications are received, the ATO will advise which quarters are eligible for the amnesty.
To be eligible for the amnesty:
- the unpaid super must be for a quarter between 1 July 1992 and 31 March 2018
- the shortfall cannot have already been disclosed to the ATO
- the ATO cannot already be examining the shortfall.
If an employer cannot pay in full, a flexible payment plan can be worked out with the ATO to ensure they continue qualifying for the benefits of the amnesty.
Payment reference numbers
Applicants will need their payment reference number (PRN) to make payments. The ATO will send their PRN to them within 14 business days of receiving their application. If an employer has not lodged their amnesty application by mid-August, they can get their PRN:
- from a super guarantee charge related statement issued for the same Australian business number
- by phoning the ATO on 1800 815 886 between 8.00am and 6.00pm from Monday to Friday.
You can also request PRNs for your clients using the Mail function in Online Services for agents. You should select:
- Topic: Superannuation
- Subject: Lodge SG amnesty.
Further reading
- Information about Superannuation guarantee amnesty, or how to apply for the amnesty, or how to obtain your payment reference number (PRN).