Can I claim laundry expenses on my tax return in Australia?
Yes, you can claim laundry expenses on your Australian tax return if the clothing is a uniform, protective, or occupation-specific and has a logo, provided it is a work-related expense not reimbursed by your employer.
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How it works in practice
Eligibility for Claims
You can claim a deduction for the cost of washing, drying, and ironing eligible work clothes. This typically includes uniforms (both compulsory and non-compulsory with a visible logo), protective clothing required for your job, or occupation-specific clothing (e.g., chef's checked pants). Normal clothing, even if worn for work, is generally not deductible.
Claiming Under $150
If your total claim for laundry expenses is under $150, you are not required to keep written records but must be able to explain how you calculated your claim. The ATO allows a reasonable estimate, typically $1 per load for work-only clothes or 50 cents per load if other clothes are included. If you pay for dry cleaning, you must keep records regardless of the amount.
Claiming Over $150
For claims exceeding $150, you must keep written records of your expenses, such as receipts for dry cleaning or a diary to record your washing frequency and load size. This ensures you can substantiate your claim if the ATO requests further information.
Important exceptions
None identified.
What you should do now
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Ensure the clothing meets eligibility criteria: it must be a uniform (compulsory or non-compulsory with logo), protective clothing, or occupation-specific.
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Calculate your expenses, using the ATO's reasonable rate of $1 per load for work-only laundry or 50 cents per mixed load, or actual dry cleaning costs.
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Keep accurate records for dry cleaning expenses or if your total laundry claim exceeds $150.
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If your employer reimbursed you for these costs, you cannot claim them as a deduction.
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Include your total eligible laundry expenses in the 'Work-related clothing, laundry and dry cleaning expenses' section of your tax return.
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