If you are looking for a specialist career path in accounting and bookkeeping, then becoming a BAS agent is a good choice. It’s a great option for those looking for a stable and well-paid job with a bit of flexibility. But if you’re interested in how to become a BAS agent, it would help if you learned about the required qualifications. Read on as we discuss what you need to do to start your career in this industry.
Do I Need a Certificate IV in Accounting or Bookkeeping to Become a BAS Agent?
The simple answer is yes. You need a formal accounting or bookkeeping certificate to become a BAS agent, but higher qualifications are also welcome. Apart from that, you will also need to meet other relevant personal and educational qualifications before attempting registration with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB).
What is a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping?
A Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping is an excellent way to demonstrate your professional knowledge and competency in the industry. It’s a nationally recognised qualification and provides you with the skills and knowledge needed to work as a BAS agent, including GST law, accounting principles and financial services advice.
But besides this certificate, what else do you need for BAS agent registration?
Personal Requirements to Become a Registered BAS Agent
Apart from relevant education, you must meet a few other personal requirements to become a BAS agent. These include:
- Being over 18 years of age
- One must be a fit and proper person. It consists of the following not occurring during the previous five years:
- Being convicted of severe taxation offences
- Being convicted of crimes related to fraud or dishonesty
- Being sentenced to a term of imprisonment
- Being penalised for promoting a tax exploitation scheme
- Being an undischarged bankrupt
In addition to the above, you must also have the right kind of character to be a BAS agent. It includes being honest, reliable and consistent with your work. You should also act ethically in all situations and comply with relevant laws and regulations.
Educational Requirements to Become a Registered BAS Agent
Regarding BAS education, you have two options:
Accounting Qualifications
- A Certificate IV in bookkeeping or accounting (or higher) from a recognised RTO or an equivalent institution.
- Complete a board-approved course that tackles basic GST/BAS taxation principles.
- You must complete 1,400 hours of relevant experience within the past four years.
Professional Association Membership
- A Certificate IV in bookkeeping or accounting (or higher) from a recognised RTO or an equivalent institution.
- Complete a board-approved course that tackles basic GST/BAS taxation principles.
- If you are a voting member of a recognised tax agent association or BAS, you can reduce your work experience requirement to 1,000 hours.
Professional Indemnity Insurance for a Registered BAS Agent
You will also need to maintain a professional indemnity insurance cover that meets the TPB’s requirements to operate as a BAS agent. Some industry associations work with insurance companies to negotiate a good deal for their members. However, you can also choose to source your insurance yourself.
Lodge an Online Application
Once you have completed all the requirements of the TPB, you can lodge your application online and pay the application fee amounting to $146. Remember to pay the price in full upon applying.
The details will appear on the TPB register if your application is accepted. Upon acceptance, you must also advise the board on how you plan to meet their professional indemnity insurance requirement within 14 days of the notification. After that, the board will notify the ATO that you are officially registered, and you can contact the ATO to arrange access to their online services.
The Benefits of Becoming a BAS Agent
When it comes to the benefits of becoming a BAS agent, there are plenty!
Flexibility: As a BAS agent, you will be able to work in a variety of industries and locations. You can choose when and where you want to work and the type of clients you take on.
Increase in Earnings: Most BAS agents earn more than their counterparts who are not registered with the TPB, making it an attractive career choice.
Career satisfaction: The job of a BAS agent is both challenging and rewarding, allowing you to make a real difference in your clients’ lives. You will also have the opportunity to work with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
Potential to Grow Your Career: As a BAS agent, you can grow both professionally and personally, as there is always something new to learn. With ongoing training and development opportunities available, you will never be stuck in the same place for too long.
Gain Knowledge and Experience: Working as a BAS agent gives you the knowledge and experience to progress in the field, allowing you to build your own business or take on higher-level positions.
Overall, becoming a BAS agent is an excellent career choice for those who have the right qualifications and personal traits. With plenty of opportunities to grow professionally and personally, it is certainly worth considering.
Final Thoughts
While you do need a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping to register as a BAS agent, the requirements don’t end there. So if you want to prepare for your application, make sure to research to become fully prepared before attempting the registration. Follow our guide and begin your journey of becoming a BAS agent.
Earn a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping at AIFT
The Australian Institute of Finance Training offers certified and nationally recognised business, accounting and bookkeeping accredited courses. Moreover, we only work with leading industry trainers with the right knowledge, experience and qualifications to help you master concepts applicable in various contexts. So, if you want to earn a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping online, enrol in our courses today.
Apart from earning a Certificate IV in Bookkeeping online, you can also enrol in our other courses to gain other qualifications. Get in touch with us today or browse our website to learn more about our courses.
