As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and the business landscape returns to normal, the ATO is again ramping up its enforcement of outstanding tax liabilities with more than 50,000 Director Penalty Notices (DPNs) issued last year on directors, which if not dealt within the strict timeframes specified, can lead to personal liability.

In this Q&A, our expert panel takes you through everything you need to know in relation to ATO Director Penalty Notices.

Panellists
Patrick Coghlan, CEO, CreditorWatch
Prue Greenfield, Principal Lawyer, Macpherson Kelley
Alice Ruhe, Partner, SMB Advisory

What is a DPN?
DPNs are issued to company directors for overdue PAYG, GST and super contributions. Recent small business restructuring reforms have had a major impact on the liability of directors, so it’s important to understand your obligations if you’re issued with a DPN and how to mitigate the potential damage to your business and your personal liability as a director.

What we discuss:
· What a DPN exactly is, what it means for you and your business, and what to do (and how to know) if you are served one by the ATO
· Warning letters and garnishee notices
· The difference between non-lockdown and lockdown DPNs
· Who in a business is actually liable
· Practical tips and tricks to reduce the negative impact of a DPN
· What defences you may have in the event of a DPN