Aussies are being warned not to exaggerate their work expenses this tax time, with the ATO releasing a list of some of the wildest things people tried to claim last year.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) revealed ‘wild’ work-related expense tax claims people have tried to put past the ATO.
Hear more from Thursday’s headlines on The Briefing:
The ATO writes, “and spoiler alert: an air fryer generally won’t make the cut.”
One mechanic tried to claim: an Air Fryer, a microwave, 2 vacuum cleaners, a TV and gaming console as “work related”.
A truck driver tried to claim swimwear because it was hot where they stop along their routes, and he wanted to swim.
A fashion industry manager tried to claim over $10,000 in luxury-brand clothing and accessories to look good at work.
According to one accountant, a client once tried to claim a luxury yacht because they needed to do business on an island. The accountant said others have tried claiming haircuts because their hair grows while they’re at work.
The ATO says if the items don’t “pass the pub test”, probably don’t bother with a claim.
ATO Assistant Commissioner Rob Thomson reminded taxpayers that the ATO’s role is to collect the correct amount of tax.
“While a lunchtime dip might clear your head for work, swimwear for a truck driver is clearly not deductible,” Thomson said.
“Work-related expenses must have a close connection to your income-earning activities,” Thomson said.
Subscribe to The Briefing, Australia’s fastest-growing news podcast on Listnr today. The Briefing serves up the latest news headlines and a deep dive into a topic affecting you. All in under 20 minutes.