ARTICLE

Things You Never Knew You Could Claim On Tax

May 10, 2024 – 5 min read

We all want to maximise our tax returns. And while you might be well aware that you can claim things like home office expenses or charity donations at tax time, these aren’t all you could be getting a tidy return on at the end of the financial year (EOFY). There’s a range of little-known deductions claimed by Australians every year – and some of them might apply to you. Finance expert Katie Cunningham goes over some big tax claims you won’t want to miss, like a new mobile phone or tech products, as well as some unusual tax claims you need to know about.

Want to make the most of tax time? Find out more about our EOFY Deals here

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Top Things You Could Claim During EOFY

EOFY is the best time to get a great deal (and possibly claim some money back into your pocket) - here are some things to look out for if you're looking for handy work-related essentials. Keep reading below to find out some less known things you might be able to claim during tax time!

Don’t forget, make sure you discuss any potential purchases and tax claims with a qualified accountant or financial professional to find out if the purchase is right for you.

Vacuum Cleaners

If you work as a cleaner, or run a home business like a hair salon that you need to keep tidy, tools such as vacuum cleaners can be claimed on tax. As with any deduction, if you’re using your Dyson both at home and at work, for example, you can only claim a portion of the cost.

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“If you work as a cleaner, or run a home business like a hair salon that you need to keep tidy, tools like vacuum cleaners can be claimed on tax.”

EOFY Tech Must-Haves

If you are self-employed, work from home or study in a field related to your employment, you can claim the cost of your computer at tax time. Tablets, printers, and accessories such as keyboards and mice are all fair game as well.

Again, to be eligible, you must genuinely use your computer for work – and if you also use it for private purposes, you can only claim a percentage of its cost.

Best Ways To Maximise Your Tax Back Under $1000

Looking to invest in a home office upgrade? The EOFY sale is the time to do it. Try these top ideas:

The Dell 24” FHD Monitor, which lets you create the ergonomic WFH set-up you deserve. Simply plug your laptop in and get to work.
The Canon Pixma Home Inkjet MFC Printer, which has a built-in copier, so you can also photocopy textbooks at home.
The Bonelk Stance Laptop Stand, which is easily transportable if you’re working between the desk, kitchen bench and dining room table.

Top Pick: The Dell 24" FHD Monitor

Best Ways To Maximise Your Tax Back Over $1000

If you’re expecting a bigger tax return, there’s a lot of great ways to spend your refund:

The Apple iPhone 15 128GB, which comes with a big boost in battery life to see you all the way through a busy work day of calls and emails.
The lightweight and powerful Lenovo Yoga Slim 6 14" EVO i7 16GB 1TB Laptop, which is perfect for on-the-go productivity..
The TP-LINK AX3000 Whole Home Mesh WiFi 6 System (3-pack), for powerful internet at home or in your small business office.

Mobile Phone

If you use your mobile phone for work and your employer isn’t already reimbursing you, you can claim some of the cost of both the handset and your phone bills. To be able to include the cost of a new phone on your next tax return, buy it on or before June 30 and hold onto your receipt.

Remember, if you’re using your phone for personal and work reasons, you’ll need to apportion your claim. But this is one expense most professionals are eligible for, so be sure to chat to your tax agent about it.

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Top Things You Never Knew Your Could Claim On Tax

Of course, there must be a legitimate business reason for any tax claim. But with the right documentation, you might be eligible to claim some very interesting expenses. Don’t forget, make sure you discuss any potential tax claims with a qualified accountant or financial professional to confirm if you are eligible.

So, what are the most surprising tax deductions out there?

Work Handbags

If you’re using a handbag – or a briefcase, satchel or laptop bag – to carry your computer to work, then you could be able to claim it on tax. This deduction applies to a range of industries. To be eligible, you just have to be able to demonstrate that the bag is legitimately used specifically for work.

Media Subscriptions

In this digital media world, many media publications are now subscription-based and can be deductible if they relate to your trade or profession. Subscriptions to newspapers, professional magazines, TV journals and podcasts could be claimed if they can be proven to link to your profession.

Gym Equipment

Do you own a business? If you’ve been thinking of improving workplace health and wellbeing, you might be able to claim on selected items at tax time. However, before you start running off to buy the latest treadmill for the office, check with your tax advisor on what can be potentially claimed for your line of business. These items are often effective at helping keep workers happy and engaged in better productivity.

Dogs

If you need a dog for work – then the ongoing expenses related to its care could be a legitimate business expense. The government won’t reimburse you for the initial cost of the dog, but you can claim the money you spend on its food, veterinarian bills and registration. The Good Guys sells clever pet tech such as smart pet feeders to help you look after your four-legged employee.

Don’t forget to check out more EOFY tips here

Whatever your needs this financial year, The Good Guys is here to help with expert advice, the biggest brands and the best deals. See us in store or online to discover our great EOFY deals.