Did you know that sun protection items like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses can be claimed on tax in Australia? If you work outdoors and purchase these items to protect yourself from the sun, you may be able to claim a deduction for them on your tax return.
As an Australian worker who spends much of your time outdoors, you know the importance of protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. And while buying sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses may feel like just another expense, did you know that these items can actually be tax deductible? That’s right – by claiming these items on your tax return, you may receive a bigger refund!
Imagine this scenario: it’s a beautiful summer day and you decide to take a well-deserved break to hit the beach. You slather on some sun cream, pop on a hat, and slip on your sunglasses before heading out. Little did you know, these precautions are not only keeping you safe and comfortable, but they may also help you score a tax deduction and potentially increase your tax refund.
How does this work?
In Australia, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows taxpayers to claim a tax deduction for certain work-related expenses, including those that help protect your skin and eyes from the sun. This means that if you purchase sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for the purpose of protecting yourself from the sun while working outdoors, you may be able to claim a deduction for these items on your tax return.
To claim a deduction for sun protection items, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have spent the money yourself and not been reimbursed by your employer.
- The items must be directly related to your work.
- You must have a record to prove the purchase, such as a receipt.
Let’s go back to our beach scenario. If you meet all of the above criteria, you may be able to claim a deduction for the sun cream, hat, and sunglasses you purchased for the day on your tax return. This can potentially increase your tax refund or reduce the amount of tax you owe. Keep in mind that the ATO may request additional evidence to support your claim, such as a letter from your employer stating that you are required to work outdoors or a description of your job duties that demonstrate the need for sun protection.
It’s important to note that this deduction only applies to the cost of the items themselves and there is no way to include any associated expenses, such as transportation costs to the beach or parking!
Can you claim sunglasses on tax?
Yes you can! If your place of work is outside and you need the sunglasses for sun protection, you can claim the cost of your sunglasses on tax. This includes if you’re a truck driver or operate another vehicle outside.
So, in summary, if you work outdoors and purchase sun protection items to protect yourself from the sun, you may be able to claim a tax deduction for sunglasses and these other sun protection expenses on your tax return. This can potentially increase your tax refund or reduce the amount of tax you owe. Don’t forget to keep good records and be prepared to provide evidence if requested by the ATO. Happy sun-safe beach day and happy tax season!
One Click Life can help you
The more you deduct, the less tax you pay and the more money you have for other things in your life.
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