We are a proud member of the Financial Services Online network!
Connect with us on your favourite social media platform for the latest financial news, views, tips, tricks, resources and information.
The ATO has flagged three areas of concern where errors frequently occur: erroneous work-related deductions, amplified claims on rental properties, and omissions in declared income. Assistant Commissioner Rob Thomson emphasizes that even though some inaccuracies are not deliberate, taxpayers should be extra cautious to avoid penalties.
In the last tax season, above eight million Australians lodged work-related expenses, with a significant portion being for home office use. The ATO has revised the way it calculates home office expenses, introducing a new fixed rate and specifying what qualifies for deduction. Clear and detailed documentation to support claims is now mandatory, including records of hours worked from home and associated expenditures such as utility bills.
"If you plan to replicate last year’s home office deduction without the proper documentation, be prepared for a follow-up from us," warns Thomson. He insists that to prevent disqualification, taxpayers must ensure they follow three critical rules: personal expenses must be incurred without reimbursement, the expense should be tied to income generation, and tangible evidence like a receipt is necessary to validate the claim.
Concerning rental property owners, the ATO reports widespread discrepancies in tax returns, with many landlords wrongly logging their income tax. Maintenance and repair claims are a particular focus, with Thomson advising against exaggerating these to compensate for higher rental incomes. Legitimate immediate deductions include routine repairs; however, initial restorations or improvements like kitchen renovations fall under capital works and are deductible over time.
Thomson encourages property owners to thoroughly review their documentation before submitting their tax returns, and if needed, consult a registered tax agent for accurate deduction filings.
To ensure the accuracy of their tax filings, Thomson advocates Australians to avoid hurrying their tax return submissions at the beginning of July. He notes that errors often stem from rushing and neglecting to include all sources of income such as bank interest, dividends, and additional government payments. Taxpayers are advised to wait until pre-filled data is available, ensuring completeness and reducing the likelihood of amendments post-submission.
"While many are eager to check off their tax return early, exercising a bit of patience can be the key to getting your tax return right. Confirm that your employment income statement has been finalized and that your pre-filled information is comprehensive in myTax before lodging," Thomson concludes.
Published:Monday, 6th May 2024
Source: Paige Estritori
| Rookies in Real Estate: Albanese Budget Misses First-Time Buyers 18 May 2024: Paige Estritori The Albanese government's latest housing budget injects billions into housing, aiming to energize the construction of new homes. However, an important demographic has been left disappointed: first-time home buyers who feel sidelined amidst these changes. - read more |
| Australia’s Housing Dilemma: Construction Lags as Population Booms 17 May 2024: Paige Estritori In a recent address delivered in Hobart, Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Assistant Governor Sarah Hunter highlighted a mounting concern in Australia's housing market: a significant shortage of homes amidst rapidly growing population numbers, largely driven by net overseas migration. - read more |
| Australia's New Pathway to Boost Economic Growth 16 May 2024: Paige Estritori Australian financial sector leaders have expressed strong support following the latest announcement of key budgetary adjustments aimed at streamlining investment processes and deepening engagement within the nation's financial landscape. The Federal Budget has placed a spotlight on the financial service sector's significant position as a promoter of Australia's sustainable economic prosperity. - read more |
| Financial Pressures Reshape Australian Job Market Landscape 09 May 2024: Paige Estritori Economic uncertainties and the escalating cost-of-living are prompting a considerable transformation within the Australian labor market, with anxiety over job security influencing employee behavior significantly. This departure from recent trends sees a strategic shift, which could alter the dynamism between staff members and their employers. - read more |
| ATO Targets Home Office Claims & Real Estate Deductions 06 May 2024: Paige Estritori Australian residents are being alerted to tighten up their tax return filing, particularly with the deductions claimed for home offices and rental property expenses, as the Australian Tax Office (ATO) sharpens its scrutiny on such declarations. - read more |
| The Top Jet Ski Brands in Australia: Which One Is Right for You? When it comes to purchasing a jet ski, choosing the right brand is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. There are various jet ski brands available in Australia, each with their unique features and specifications. - read more
|
| Jet Ski Maintenance: How to Keep Your Jet Ski Running Smoothly Jet skiing is one of the most exhilarating water sports out there and owning a Jet Ski can be incredibly exciting. However, along with the excitement comes the responsibility of ensuring that your Jet Ski is well-maintained. Jet Ski maintenance is important for many reasons, and in this article, we will explore the reasons behind why it should be a top priority for any Jet Ski owner. - read more
|
| Understanding the Weather: Predicting Conditions for a Safe Jetski Experience Weather plays a pivotal role in almost all outdoor activities, but when it comes to jetskiing, it does more than just influence the level of enjoyment—it dictates the safety and viability of taking to the water. For enthusiasts of this thrilling water sport, knowing how to read and understand weather conditions is not just a skill, it's a necessity. - read more
|
| Can I Get a Jet Ski Loan With Poor Credit? If you’re looking to finance a new or used jet ski, you may be wondering if it’s possible to get a loan with bad credit. The short answer is yes – and it may be easier than you think, but there are a few things you need to know before you start the process of applying for a loan. - read more
|
| Jetski Essentials: The Safety Must-Haves for Every Aussie Rider Safety on the water is paramount, and as thrilling as jet skiing can be, it is essential to recognize the risks involved and the importance of being well-prepared. When we talk about jetski safety, it isn't just about compliance with laws and regulations—it's about ensuring that every ride is as safe as it is enjoyable. Understanding the importance of safety on the water is the first step to becoming a responsible jetski operator. - read more
|
|
New vs Used Jetski: A Cost-Benefit Analysis of Jetski Ownership Imagine cutting through the sparkling waters, the sun on your skin, and the thrill of speed and spray - this is the exhilarating world of jetski ownership. It's a realm where freedom meets adventure, where weekends transform into adrenaline-fueled escapes. However, the rush of riding the waves isn't without its costs, and savvy enthusiasts know that budgeting for your aquatic escapades is as essential as the lifejacket you wear. It's about balancing passion with practicality. - read more
|
|
Make a Splash Without Sinking Your Budget: Affordable Jetski Financing Options Imagine the splash of water on your face and the adrenaline rush as you glide over waves at exhilarating speeds. The thrill of owning a jetski offers a unique brand of excitement and freedom found only on the open waters. However, before you can make waves, it's essential to navigate the sea of financial considerations that come with purchasing such a prized possession. - read more
|
|
|
Jet Ski Maintenance: How to Keep Your Jet Ski Running Smoothly Jet skiing is one of the most exhilarating water sports out there and owning a Jet Ski can be incredibly exciting. However, along with the excitement comes the responsibility of ensuring that your Jet Ski is well-maintained. Jet Ski maintenance is important for many reasons, and in this article, we will explore the reasons behind why it should be a top priority for any Jet Ski owner. - read more
|
|
|
Understanding the Weather: Predicting Conditions for a Safe Jetski Experience Weather plays a pivotal role in almost all outdoor activities, but when it comes to jetskiing, it does more than just influence the level of enjoyment—it dictates the safety and viability of taking to the water. For enthusiasts of this thrilling water sport, knowing how to read and understand weather conditions is not just a skill, it's a necessity. - read more
|
|
Cruising Through Loan Applications: Tips for Swift Jetski Financing in Australia Nothing quite matches the exhilaration of skimming across the glistening waters of Australia's coastlines on a personal jet ski. The freedom to explore hidden coves, the adrenaline rush of high speeds, and the joy of shared adventures with friends and family—these are just a few thrills that come with jet ski ownership. - read more
|