Can I claim sunscreen and sunglasses on my tax return in Australia?
Yes, you can claim sunscreen and sunglasses on your Australian tax return if you are exposed to the sun while performing your work duties and these items are used to protect you from sun-related injury or illness.
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How it works in practice
Eligibility for Deduction
You can claim a deduction for the cost of sunscreen and sunglasses if your job requires you to work in the sun for prolonged periods and these items are essential to protect you from sun-related injury or illness. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) classifies these as protective items. This means there must be a direct connection between your work duties and the need for these items.
Conditions for Claiming
To be eligible, the sun protection must be used to prevent work-related injury or illness, such as sunburn or eye damage from UV exposure, rather than for general comfort or personal use. You must have incurred the expense yourself, and your employer should not have reimbursed you or provided the items. If you use them for both work and personal purposes, you must apportion the claim, only deducting the work-related portion.
Important exceptions
None identified. You cannot claim a deduction if your employer provides the sunscreen or sunglasses, or reimburses you for them. You also cannot claim for items used for general sun protection that are not directly related to your work duties or if they are primarily for personal use, such as daily recreational activities. If an item has mixed work and personal use, you can only claim the work-related percentage of the cost.
What you should do now
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Determine if your work duties require you to be exposed to the sun for prolonged periods, necessitating sun protection.
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Ensure your employer does not provide or reimburse you for the cost of sunscreen or sunglasses.
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Keep accurate records, such as receipts, for all sunscreen and sunglass purchases you intend to claim.
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If you use these items for both work and personal reasons, calculate and claim only the work-related portion of the expense.
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Consult the ATO website or a registered tax agent for specific advice tailored to your individual circumstances.
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