Can I claim tax back on my work clothes?
Date posted: Monday, June 9, 2014
So you’ve been giving your credit card a work out and you bought an awesome designer bag, the latest adidas high-tops, and a few tops that you’ll most definitely wear at work eh?! And now you’re not sure what clothing you can claim as an expense on for your upcoming tax return – right?
Read on to see if your clothing falls into one of the categories you are entitled to make a claim on.
Work Uniforms
If you’re required to wear a uniform that is unique and distinctive to the organisation or brand that you work for, then you are able to claim for the purchase of the uniform.
Occupation-Specific Clothing
This relates to clothing that is specific to your occupation and is not every day in nature, such as the overalls a mechanic might wear. We’re afraid however that this does not include garments you bought specifically for work but are actually every-day clothes as well. Likewise this does not include that gorgeous dress you bought for a work event.
Protective Clothing
Clothing and footwear required to protect you from the risk of illness or injury while carrying out your duties, such as work boots or a specific type or brand of work gear, are deductible.
Clothing, Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Expenses
You can also claim a deduction for the cost of buying and cleaning occupation-specific clothing, protective clothing and unique, distinctive uniforms.
Just be sure that when you make a deduction you have some form of written evidence that you purchased the clothing and records or written evidence of your cleaning costs.
To find out more about what you can and can’t claim this financial year give us a call, send us an email or book in for a visit. We specialise in servicing individuals and businesses in the South Eastern Suburbs including Pakenham, Lakeside, Berwick, Nar Nar Goon, Garfield, Tynong and Koo Wee Rup.