How Often Is BAS Lodged?

The frequency of BAS lodgement depends on the business and its GST reporting obligations. Many small businesses lodge BAS quarterly, while some businesses may lodge monthly. Businesses with particular circumstances can also have different reporting arrangements. 

Your BAS records the relevant tax obligations covered by the activity statement, which can include GST and other amounts depending on the business. The important point for bookkeeping is that your accounts need to be kept up to date before BAS preparation and lodgement. 

Regular bookkeeping helps ensure transactions have been correctly recorded and GST has been appropriately coded. If the books are left until the BAS deadline, there may be a much larger amount of work required to identify missing transactions, reconcile bank accounts and correct errors.

 Young Guns Bookkeeping can help Melbourne businesses maintain their bookkeeping throughout the year so their records are ready for BAS work. If BAS lodgement is being performed by a registered BAS or tax agent, the bookkeeper can also work with that professional to ensure the underlying records are organised. The ATO distinguishes registered BAS agents from ordinary bookkeeping providers, so businesses should establish who is responsible for BAS services before engaging a provider. 

Your actual BAS due dates depend on your circumstances and the reporting period. Business owners should check their specific ATO obligations rather than relying on a generic quarterly assumption. Keeping your bookkeeping current throughout the year makes the BAS process much less stressful and gives you better visibility over your GST position.