Blog Layout

Changes to Work from Home Deductions – Fixed Rate

CoggerGurry • March 6, 2023

The ATO has released updated guidelines on the way taxpayers can claim Work from Home (WFH) Expenses from 1 July 2022. Many workers have transitioned to permanent hybrid working models that enables them to work from home for one or sometimes several days a week. With this change the ATO has revised the Fixed Rate method applicable to claim WFH expenses on a cents per hour basis from 52 cents to 67 cents.

 

The updated rate covers the following expenses that cannot have any additional deductions made on top of the fixed hourly rate:

-         Energy Expenses (Electricity & Gas)

-         Phone Usage (Mobile & Home)

-         Internet

-         Stationery

-         Computer consumables (Paper, Printer Cartridges etc.)

 

Items that can continue to be claimed separately are:

-         Decline in value of assets used while working from home such as Computers and Office Furniture

-         Repairs & Maintenance for the above assets

-         Cleaning costs, where a dedicated home office space is in use.

 

Recordkeeping for the 2023 Financial year requires:

-         Accurate records for all hours worked for the entire income year. The ATO will not accept estimates or a 4-week representative diary.

-         Records for hours worked from the home can be provided in the following forms: timesheets, rosters, logs spent accessing business systems or a full year diary.

 

Please note the Actual Cost method has not changes and taxpayers can continue to claim actual work-related portions of all running expenses provided they keep detailed records for all receipts, bills and similar documents to show expenses incurred along with a record on how the taxpayer has calculated the work-related and private portion of their expenses.

 

If you would like to discuss any questions relating to your working from home deductions, please contact one of our tax specialist at 03 5571 0111. 

By Cogger Gurry February 13, 2025
A quick reminder for all employers: the Superannuation Guarantee (SG) rate is set to increase. Currently, you’re required to contribute 11.5% of your employees' ordinary time earnings (OTE) to their super. However, from 1 July 2025 , this will rise to 12% . Super contributions must be paid at least quarterly to eligible employees, so now is the time to plan for this change and ensure your payroll systems are updated. Stay ahead of the update and keep your business compliant. Did you know we also offer Bookkeeping and Payroll Support ? Call us today to discuss how we can help 03 5571 0111
By Cogger Gurry February 13, 2025
Australia’s super system plays a vital role in ensuring financial security for individuals in retirement. However, how superannuation is taxed can appear complex. In Australia, superannuation is taxed at three main points: contributions, investment earnings and withdrawals. This structure is known as a TTE (taxed, taxed, exempt) system: contributions to the superannuation fund are taxed and the investment earnings within the fund are also taxed, but withdrawals made during retirement are generally exempt from tax. That is, in Australia’s system: Contributions, including those made by employers under the super guarantee (SG) and voluntary concessional contributions, are taxed at a concessional rate of 15%. This is lower than the rates that apply to most other forms of income, providing a tax advantage. Earnings generated from fund investments during the accumulation phase are also taxed at a flat rate of 15%. This is beneficial because it’s lower than the tax rates that typically apply to investment income earned outside of superannuation. Withdrawals made during retirement are generally tax-free. This is intended to enhance the appeal of building super savings over your working life, ensuring you have a tax-effective income stream in retirement. Call us today to discuss your superannuation with one of our experts 03 5571 0111
By Cogger Gurry February 13, 2025
Staying on top of the ATO’s focus areas for 2025 will help your business stay compliant and avoid unnecessary stress. The ATO has highlighted key areas where businesses often make mistakes, so you can take proactive steps to manage your tax responsibilities. Keep Business and Personal Finances Separate Your business’s money and assets should not be treated as your personal funds. Using company money for personal expenses without proper documentation can lead to issues with the ATO. If you take money from your business, it may be treated as a loan that needs to be properly recorded and repaid with interest. If not managed correctly, this can result in unexpected tax bills or penalties. Claim Deductions and Concessions Correctly Many small businesses make mistakes when claiming tax deductions and concessions. The ATO is paying close attention to how businesses apply for small business capital gains tax (CGT) concessions and report business losses. If you’re claiming a deduction, ensure you meet all the requirements to avoid having to pay back incorrectly claimed amounts or facing penalties. Follow the Tax Rules The ATO is cracking down on businesses that under-report income, over-claim expenses, or use business funds for personal spending. Poor record-keeping and cash flow management can also raise red flags. Good financial habits will help you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary scrutiny. For more information from the ATO, read the full details here
More Posts
Share by: