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Tax Deductions You Should Consider

12 years ago

We all love to receive a healthy tax return. The simplest way to getting a good tax return is to make sure you’re claiming all the deductions you’re eligible for. Here are some deductions that you can often claim.

1. Travel For Work

Regularly review your work related travel and decide whether you should be keeping a logbook. This is particularly relevant if you expect to travel more than 5,000 business kilometres per year. Having a current logbook and recording all your motor vehicle expenses will enable your accountant to compare which motor vehicle method is best for you.

You can claim up to 5,000km of travel in your tax return without a logbook if you keep details of how you calculated your kilometres. This includes travel to investment properties, travel to get tax advice, and work related travel. Consider travel between two separate places of employment, and travel involving carrying bulky equipment that you could not leave at your workplace.

2. Uniform Expenses

You can claim the purchase of a work uniform that is

distinctive and
either compulsory, or not compulsory but registered with AusIndustry

then you may also claim expenses you incur for repairing, laundry, and dry cleaning of that uniform. This also applies if you wear clothing that is

protective or
occupation –specific

3. Specific Job Types

See the ATO website to see if they have your occupation listed for specific deductions relating to your job.

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by Carol Allan

Carol is a Senior Accountant at Insight Accounting advice. She is a registered tax agent, has a Bachelor of Commerce and Advanced Diploma in Accounting. Carol’s areas of expertise include tax and property advice.