Choosing the Right Super Option for Your Unique Needs Self-managed super funds (SMSFs) are growing in popularity and more Australians are using them to build their retirement funds. What are SMSFs, and most importantly, are they worth it? Below we compare the two most popular options, self-managed and APRA-regulated funds. Definitions What is a Self-Managed […]
The Etax Blog: Tax Tips
Australian Superannuation Guide
Everything you need to know about superannuation, from the basics of how funds work, extra payments, tax deductions & keeping them on track.
Claiming Work From Home Tax Deductions
If you’re an employee who works from home, you’re probably using things like your phone, internet, and electricity. These are considered work from home tax deductions that you could potentially claim on your tax return.
Work related car expenses: what can I claim on my tax return?
The ATO has rules for how to calculate car deductions. Find out how new car deduction rules may affect you (and your tax refund).
Simple Ways to Improve Your Tax Refund
Here’s the most common question people ask us every year: How can I get a bigger refund and pay less tax?” Australians are always looking for ways to improve their tax refund. We’ll answer this common question with four easy ways to improve your refund… 1. Manage your tax receipts Keeping track of your receipts […]
A Simple Guide To Tax Deductions in Australia
A tax deduction is something you paid for, out of your own pocket, that can be listed on your tax return. Deductions can help reduce your taxable income, which boosts your tax refund at tax time.
School holiday ideas for a tight budget
Looking for cheap school holiday activity ideas? You’ve found them! From creative projects to local adventures, there are countless ways to enjoy school holidays on a budget. In this post, we’ve hunted out all kinds of cheap and free school holiday ideas for activities that children (and adults) will love, that won’t put a strain […]
How much does a dog cost? – Really!
Dreaming of becoming a fur parent? Get up to speed on the REAL cost of owning a dog, so you know what to expect before your commit We are a nation of pet lovers, and our canine friends are the most popular pet in Australia. With post pandemic flexible work arrangements now commonplace, dog ownership […]
Christmas on a Budget: Festive cheer that won’t leave you broke!
It’s very easy to get swept up in the expectations of a grand Christmas but this often leads to financial stresses, both during and well after the holiday season has passed. Fortunately, doing Christmas on a budget doesn’t need to be dull or difficult. It just takes a little planning and a little extra thought. […]
A Simple Guide to Understanding Depreciation
How does depreciation work on your tax return Just the idea of depreciation seems complicated, but understanding it is crucial for those who own rental properties, run a small business or those who want to claim a tax deduction for work-related purchases over $300. For this reason, we’ve put together a very simple guide to […]
Why Is My Tax Refund So Low?
And How Do I Avoid It Happening Again?
Approximately eight out of every ten Australians who lodge a tax return receive a tax refund. But for some of us, the refund that we get isn’t quite as big as we expect.
The 2024 Tax Return Deadline has Passed
Lodge Your Tax Return in Minutes The tax deadline for lodging Individual Tax Returns was October 31; if you haven’t lodged yet, you can get it done now, in just a few minutes. Beating the tax return deadline takes just a few minutes, with live online support to make it easy. Get Started NowReturning Users […]
“Instant Tax Refunds” – Read This Before You Sign
At tax time you often see ads for a “same day tax refund” or “instant tax refund”. It might sound appealing to get your tax refund today… But the truth is, a “same day tax refund” is not really what the name suggests. Can I Get my Tax Refund Today? Most Australians wait only 6-10 […]
Claiming Home Office Expenses in 2024
The ATO announced big changes to how you claim home office expenses on your 2024 tax return. Before we get into the details, don’t stress – at Etax we’ll help get it right for you. Some of the changes to work-from-home claims are complicated, BUT, Etax will automatically calculate which deduction method gives you the […]
What is the maximum ATO late lodgement penalty?
The maximum fine handed out by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for not lodging your tax return by the 31 October deadline is $1,650! Fines can start at $330 for being just one day overdue, then increase over time, as follows: Days overdue Total fine amount 1 – 28 days $330 29 – 56 days […]
