How should I track an accountant’s communications with tax authorities?

Track communication through to outcome

Agree with your accountant how you will receive copies of submissions, incoming responses and requests for further information. Use a log showing the authority, subject, reference, date sent or received, responsible person and current status. Store the underlying documents rather than relying on a summary alone.

Distinguish a draft response, an authorised submission, an acknowledgement of receipt and a substantive decision. Confirmation that a message reached AADE does not necessarily mean the request has been accepted or the matter resolved. Ask the accountant to explain what each response means and what action remains.

Record your approval of factual statements where requested and keep questions about legal interpretation separate for professional advice. Use appropriate representation arrangements rather than sharing account passwords casually. If an expected update has not arrived, follow the agreed escalation route without assuming silence is favourable. Close the entry only when the adviser has explained the outcome, any remaining obligations and the evidence you should retain. Keep related payments linked but separately identifiable.