The federal government knew for months that the Tax Office was considering ending credit card payments of tax debts
The Australian Tax Office (ATO) was considering an end to credit card payments of tax debts. The federal government was aware of the ATO's thinking for months, according to a report published on Saturday 17 October by the Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, Brisbane Times and WA Today. The material reviewed does not state the date of any decision or the amount of tax currently paid by card. It also does not state whether the ATO has made a final announcement. The ATO has not been quoted in the summary.
Small businesses that pay tax bills by credit card use it to bridge cash flow and collect card rewards. Removing the option shifts the burden to bank transfers and overdrafts, which cost more when interest rates have risen.
If you pay tax by card, check how much you owe and when it is due, and plan another method. Ask your accountant whether a payment plan with the ATO suits you better than a card.
If the government knew for months and said nothing, the question is not the card, it is the notice. Small businesses plan on notice.
DailyDrop Australia edition No. 14 · Morning · SUN., OCT. 18, 2026