Crossword Genius

Share out area tax returns (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

allot

'share out' is the definition.
(allotting is a kind of sharing out)

'area tax returns' is the wordplay.
'area' becomes 'a' (maths abbreviation).
'tax' becomes 'toll' (I've seen this in other clues**).
'returns' is a reversal indicator.
'toll' written backwards gives 'llot'.
'a'+'llot'='ALLOT'

(Other definitions for allot that I've seen before include "Hand out" , "Assign (to someone)" , "Give as a share, or a task to be done" , "Distribute in portions" , "Dispense or distribute" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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