How Do I Make My Tax Return Simple?
For many people, tax time feels more complicated than it needs to be.
In reality, a simple tax return usually comes down to preparation, organisation, and having the right structure in place — not last-minute scrambling.
If you want to reduce stress and make tax time easier, here are some practical ways to simplify the process.
Get Organised Throughout the Year
One of the biggest reasons tax returns feel difficult is because everything is left until the end.
Keeping documents organised as you go makes a huge difference. This includes income records, expense invoices, loan statements, and property reports.
When everything is already in one place, tax time becomes far less overwhelming.
Keep Clear, Consistent Records
Simple tax returns start with good records.
Use one system — digital or paper — and stick to it. Label documents clearly and keep them grouped by financial year.
Clear records reduce questions, follow-ups, and delays when your return is being prepared.
Separate Personal and Investment Finances
Mixing personal and investment expenses is one of the biggest causes of tax-time confusion.
Keeping investment expenses clearly separated makes it easier to identify what’s deductible and what’s not.
This is especially helpful for property investors and anyone with multiple income sources.
Understand the Basics (Not Every Rule)
You don’t need to know every tax rule to make your return simple.
Understanding the basics — such as what income must be declared and what types of expenses may be deductible — helps you provide accurate information and avoid surprises.
Clear understanding reduces back-and-forth and rework.
Use Professionals Who Work Together
Tax returns are much easier when your accountant and mortgage adviser are aligned.
Loan structure, interest, and investment decisions all affect tax outcomes. When advice works together, the process becomes smoother.
Tax professionals such as
The Accountants
help ensure deductions are applied correctly and efficiently.
Don’t Leave It Until the Last Minute
Rushing is one of the biggest reasons tax returns feel stressful.
Starting early allows time to gather documents, clarify questions, and avoid unnecessary pressure.
A calm, unrushed process is almost always a simpler one.
Review Your Structure Regularly
Simple tax returns often come from simple structures.
If your finances or investments have grown more complex over time, reviewing your structure can reduce ongoing admin and confusion.
Small adjustments can lead to much simpler reporting year after year.
Ask Questions Before, Not After
If you’re unsure whether something is deductible or how to record it, ask early.
Clarifying things upfront avoids mistakes and corrections later.
There’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to tax.
Remember: Simple Doesn’t Mean Cutting Corners
Making your tax return simple doesn’t mean doing less — it means doing things clearly and correctly.
Good preparation reduces effort, stress, and risk.
How Finance Structure Can Simplify Tax Time
Your loan structure influences how easy it is to track interest, expenses, and deductions.
Clear, well-structured loans make documentation simpler and reduce confusion at tax time.
How Chase Helps Make Things Easier
Chase Douglas has extensive experience in mortgage lending and helps clients structure their loans in a way that supports clarity, organisation, and long-term planning.
Clear finance structures mean fewer questions, simpler records, and smoother tax returns.
Want to Make Tax Time Easier?
If your tax return feels more complicated than it should, it may be time for a review.
👉 Book a conversation with Chase Douglas to review how your finance structure supports simpler tax reporting and long-term strategy.
Simple systems lead to simpler outcomes.
