There is a lot of debate in the media about the pros and cons of private health insurance. People are often asking, “Should I get private health cover?” Opinions about private health cover are changing. Saving money when it comes to tax time is an important part of the decision. According to Australian consumer watchdog, Choice, cheaper […]
Sun Protection Tax Deductions: Are you covered?
There are many professions that require employees to work in the sun for periods of time. With sun exposure one of the key causes of cancer in Australia, sun protection is an absolute necessity for these people. However, sunglasses, sunscreen and protective head gear can end up costing a lot of money. So what can you do? If you’re […]
Claiming laptop on tax – what you need to know…
Many of us work after hours at home or spend a portion of our week working from home. Quite often you might use our own equipment for this, especially if you don’t have a work laptop or removing it from the office poses a security risk. If this is this case for you, it’s likely you […]
Claim personal grooming expenses as tax deductions
Do you have to pay for make up or other personal grooming expenses? If these purchases are essential for your job, you may be able to claim your money back at tax time. When we’re in the public eye at work, we all want to feel like we are well presented or reflect the role […]
Zone Tax Offset: Do you live in a remote area?
What is a zone tax offset? The zone tax offset is a tax concession offset offered by the Australian Tax Office for people who live in remote areas of Australia. This offset is to assist with the higher cost of living, amenities and other environmental factors associated with remote living. The zone tax offset provides […]
Overseas Forces Tax Offset: Are you claiming yours?
A question we often hear from people who have worked or are working overseas in the Australian Defence Force is: Am I eligible to receive an overseas forces tax offset when lodging my tax return The answer is YES as long as you meet certain criteria. How can I claim the overseas forces tax offset? […]
Simple Ways to Improve Your Tax Refund
Here’s the most common question people ask us in July every year about how to improve your tax refund; “What can I do to get a bigger refund or pay less tax?” Australians are always looking for ways to improve their refund. That’s why we’ve decided to answer this common question with four easy ways […]
HECS-HELP Benefit
The HECS-Help benefit was created to provide an incentive for graduates in particular fields to pursue industry relevant roles and/or work in specified locations. Taxpayers who meet the relevant eligibility criteria can apply to the Australian Tax Office for the HECS-HELP benefit and if approved, the ATO will pay a “benefit amount” up to approximately […]
Airbnb Tax Information: Tax tips for Airbnb hosts
How does Airbnb affect your tax return? Here’s your guide to everything you need to know about Airbnb tax On a non-business level, Airbnb offers a great opportunity to earn some extra cash by renting out that spare room, or a holiday home that would be quiet for much of the year. However, Airbnb hosts […]
How To Claim Work-Related Calls and Phone Expenses On Your Tax Return
Do you use your own mobile phone for work-related tasks? If you do, you may be able to claim a portion of your mobile phone expenses on your tax return. Keep in mind, if you are claiming your work from home expenses using the 67c method, you cannot claim your mobile phone separately. Instead, by […]
Manage your receipts and boost your tax refund!
When it comes to tax time, do you ever find yourself searching all over the place for deduction receipts from months earlier? You are not alone! A recent study conducted by the Commonwealth Bank found that lost receipts are costing one in two Australians an average $1000 in tax rebates every year. Can you afford […]
Work-Related Car Expenses:
Can I Claim My Car Expenses Without a Logbook?
Important Note: This method of claiming car costs as a tax deduction was discontinued by the ATO as of the financial year 2015-16. Late tax returns lodged for 2015 and earlier tax years are still able to use this method. Have you used your car for work this year, but forgot car expenses to keep […]
How to check your HELP debt balance
Your HELP debt often seems like a heavy weight around your neck, especially when your uni days seem like a lifetime ago and you’re keen to take your next step in life. You keep throwing money at it but unless you’re an avid spreadsheet Ninja, like Mandy in our accounts department, you often have no […]
27 Valuable Investment Property Tax Deductions
By including rental property expenses on your tax return you access an incredible range of possible tax deductions that boost your tax refund and leave more rental income in your pocket. It’s important to stay on top of your investment property taxes and claim deductions correctly to maximise your tax refund (without getting into hot […]
Work Uniform Expenses: The tax deductions you can and can’t claim
Save money by claiming your work uniform expenses on your tax return There are many types of jobs that require you to wear a uniform and/or protective clothing. Many organisations don’t provide these, or at best offer them at a discounted price to their employees. Work uniform expenses soon mount up, especially when they are […]
