ARTICLE
Things you never knew you could claim on tax
Published May 18, 2026 • Updated Jun 10, 2026 - 5 min read
There may be some unexpected work-related expenses you could claimed at tax time. This article explains which deductions may apply, what to document, and why you should check eligibility before buying.
Key takeaways from this article
Claim only the work-related portion of mixed personal and business expenses.
Vacuum cleaners may be deductible for cleaners and some home businesses.
Computer gear, printers and accessories can count if used for work or study.
Phone handsets and bills may be claimed if you use them for work.
Some unusual items, like work bags or dog care, can qualify with proof.
Most Australians know you can claim charity donations or a work uniform. But there's a whole list of deductions that fly under the radar every year - and if you've bought tech products, a new mobile phone or home office equipment for work, some of them could put real money back in your pocket before 30 June.
Finance expert Katie Cunningham walks us through the surprising things you may be able to claim at tax time in 2025–26, and what the ATO actually wants to see when you do.
Heads up: This article is general in nature and not financial or tax advice. Always check with a registered tax agent or accountant about what applies to your situation.
Want to make the most of tax time? Find out more about our EOFY Deals here
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, 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, make sure you discuss any potential tax claims with a qualified accountant or financial professional to confirm if you are eligible.
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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!
Mobile phones
Yes - if you use your personal phone for work calls, emails or apps, you may be able to claim a portion of the cost on tax. That applies to both your monthly plan and, in some cases, the phone itself.
The key word is portion. The ATO is clear that you can only claim the work-related percentage of your use. For example, if you use your phone 30% of the time for work, you might be able to claim 30% of the cost. The easiest way to work this out is to look at a full month of your bill and calculate what's genuinely work-related.
What you'll need: Phone bills or receipts, and a record of your work-use calculation.
Shopping for a new phone before EOFY? Browse mobile phones at The Good Guys
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.
Shop Vacuum Cleaners
Dyson V15 Detect Absolute Cordless Vacuum
LG A9 CordZero Prime Stick Vacuum
Shark Detect Pro Auto Empty System Cordless Vacuum
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim my phone on tax in Australia? Yes - if you use your personal mobile phone for work, you may be able to claim the work-related portion of your monthly plan and, in some cases, the cost of the phone itself. You'll need to calculate your work-use percentage and keep records.
What is the ATO work from home rate for 2025–26? The ATO's fixed rate method for 2025–26 is 70 cents per hour worked from home. This covers internet, phone usage, electricity, gas, stationery and computer consumables. You cannot claim those items separately if you use this method.
Can I claim a laptop on tax? If you purchased a laptop for work and your employer didn't reimburse you, you may be able to claim it. Items under $300 can typically be claimed in full; more expensive items are claimed via depreciation. The work-use portion of the device must be the primary use.
What records do I need for tax deductions? You'll need receipts, invoices or bank statements for each item you claim, plus evidence of the work-related purpose. For home office claims, you'll also need a record of the hours you worked from home.
What should I do before 30 June? Organise your receipts, log your work-from-home hours, and speak to a registered tax agent before the end of the financial year to make sure you're not missing any legitimate deductions.
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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.
