[sam_leader]

Hi everyone,

I was recently fined $220 for not submitting my BAS on time - 2 x $110 per month. I was something like 1 month and four days late so it ticked over into the $220 zone. How annoying!

It's v. unlike me to do my BAS late, normally I'm super prompt but moving house meant I got behind.

So at the start of the year, I got in touch with the tax office via my business portal, with a fairly detailed explanation... ok, grovel... to see if I could get let off the fine, or have it reduced at least. Here's an extract:

I understand the ATO need to keep on top of those who habitually submit their returns late but if you review my account you will see I have an impeccable record of submitting both my BAS and annual returns precisely on time, since 2001. This is an anomally, and in light of that I seriously hope you'll reconsider whether the fine is necessary.

To date, I have yet to receive an acknowledgement or a response to this message.

The problem is, the fine's due date is approaching, and I'm concerned that the fine will start accruing interest if it remains unpaid.

Should I suck it up and pay the fine? Or should I hang in there in case I'm let off? Should I chase them by phone?

What would you do?