Mercia | Taxation, Business & Finance Advisers

Whether a Property Constitutes Residential Premises for GST Purposes

Under the GST Act, a sale of real property is “input taxed” (ie no GST is payable on the sale), if the property is “residential premises to be used predominately for residential accommodation”, and other requirements are met. Although the phrase from the GST Act appears straightforward, it has been subject to lengthy arguments before the courts.

Continue reading “February Tax News Letter” »

Trust Entitlements and Loans: Tax Office Issues Guidance

The Tax Office has released its keenly awaited guidance on the tax treatment of trust entitlements and loans. The guidance, known as a practice statement, explains how the Tax Office will apply its ruling on when a private company with an unpaid present entitlement makes a loan to the trust estate which generated the entitlement. The Commissioner of Taxation said he was aware of the importance of this issue to businesses, particularly small businesses, which use a trust structure. The Commissioner said the practice statement provides practical ways for businesses to work towards a compliant structure with minimal impact on their cash flows or how they operate. He said that where businesses had made mistakes in the past, the practice statement provides several options for private companies to self-correct. TIP: The opportunity to self correct is available for a limited time only. Please contact our office if you think you may be affected. Continue reading “Dec/Jan Tax Newsletter” »