Claiming car expenses

Mar 03, 2011

What trips are work-related?

You cannot claim the cost of normal trips between home and work as the expense is private. You cannot claim it even if:

  • You do minor tasks - for example, picking up the mail on the way to work or home
  • You have to travel between home and work more than once a day
  • You are 'on call' - for example, you are on standby duty and your employer contacts you at home to come into work
  • There is no public transport near where you work
  • You work outside normal business hours - for example, shift work or overtime
  • Your home is a place of business and you travel directly to a place of employment.

You can claim the cost of trips between home and work where:

  • You use your car because you have to carry bulky tools or equipment that you use for work – for example, an extension ladder or cello and there is no secure place for you to leave them at work
  • Your home is a base of employment – you start your work at home and travel to a workplace to continue the work, or
  • You have shifting places of employment – you regularly work at more than one site each day before returning home.

Travel between two workplaces

You can claim the cost of using your car to travel directly between two separate places of employment – for example, when you have a second job.

Example

Carolyn is a clerk at a large bank. During 2004-05 she used her own car to travel from her normal place of employment to her second job as a waitress. After finishing work as a waitress, she travels directly home.

The cost of travel from her normal workplace to her second job is an allowable deduction. However, Carolyn cannot claim the cost of traveling from her second job to her home.

You can claim the cost of using your car to travel:

  • From your normal workplace to an alternative workplace - for example, a client's premises - while still on duty and back to your normal workplace or directly home
  • From your home to an alternative workplace for work purposes and then to your normal workplace or directly home.

Example

Danielle is a clerk at a large department store in the city. In 2004-05 she was required to attend an important meeting at her employer’s other store in the suburbs and travels in her own car to that store. As the meeting finished late she traveled directly home from the meeting. Danielle can claim the cost of the journey from the city store to the suburban store and from the alternate workplace to her home.

Itinerant workers

You are considered to be an itinerant worker if you have shifting places of work and regularly travel to more than one work site each day before returning home.

The following characteristics will assist you in determining if your work is itinerant:

  • Travel is a fundamental part of your work
  • You have a web of workplaces in your regular employment ace of work
  • Your regularly work at more than one site each day before returning home.

Other factors that may indicate itinerancy (to a lesser degree) include:

  • You have a degree of uncertainty of location of your employment
  • Your home is the base of your employment
  • You can carry bulky equipment from home to different work sites
  • Your employer pays you a travel allowance in recognition that you need to travel continually between different work sites.

Example 1

Joe is employed as a plumber's labourer and is dispatched to several sites each day. Joe usually travels directly from home to a different site each day to start work. As his duties require him to travel between sites on a regular basis, travel is an inherent part of his employment. Joe’s employment is regarded as itinerant.

Example 2

Jason who is employed as a builder’s labourer generally works at a single building site for two or three months before moving onto another site. Jason is not engaged in itinerant work because:

  • Each work site is considered to be a regular or fixed place of employment
  • There is no continual travel between work sites
  • Travel is not a fundamental part of his duties, and
  • There is no web of work places in his employment.

Estimating business kilometres

You must make a reasonable estimate of business kilometres. You need to satisfy the Tax Office that the travel was undertaken for income producing purposes and that your claim is calculated on a reasonable basis.

Example 1

Kymy is a secretary in an accounting firm. As part of her duties, she uses her car to travel daily from work to the bank, which is situated about 1.5 kilometres from her office, and then return to work.

Kymy estimates her travel during the financial year as three kilometres per day for five days a week for 48 weeks of the year. She uses this method to estimate that she traveled 720 business kilometres during the financial year for work purposes.

Kymy is considered to have made a reasonable estimate of her business kilometres.

Example 2

George is a mechanic who is required to regularly pick up spare parts from a supplier 6 kilometres from his workplace, that is, a 12 kilometre round trip. George bases his claim for a deduction on 3,120 kilometres based on five trips per week for 52 weeks of the year.

A check with George's employer reveals that the trip to the supplier is in fact only eight kilometres per round trip, that George made the trip no more than tree days per week and that George also had four weeks holidays.

George has not made a reasonable estimate and the claim should have been based on 1,152 kilometres, that is, three days multiplied by eight kilometres multiplied by 48 weeks.

Example 3

Alison is a nurse who uses her car to make home help visits. Alison guesses that she traveled approximately 3,500 business kilometres.

Alison has not made a reasonable estimate, and cannot claim a deduction for her car expenses. If Alison kept a diary record of her work-related travel, she could use this to make a reasonable estimate.

 

Tags: EmployeesTravel

Author: Mr Taxman

Comments

"i would like to know if i can claim fuel from work to home, due to that i am an apprentice and i do not go to tafe i do my school work in my own time. And it says i can claim fuel from work to school, but my school is at home. so i can i claim fuel for this? "

By: belinda healey on Jul 21, 2011 4:57AM

"Unfortunately Belinda you would not be able to claim for car travel. I know it sucks! Good luck with the rest of your studies and future career!"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 22, 2011 5:48AM

"I have recently got a job as a contract sales consultant and spend a lot of time on the road, but they don't offer a car allowance, I pay for all exspenses on a flat hourly rate."

By: Sandy on Jun 13, 2017 10:26AM

"My usual place of employment in Milton was flooded in the January floods. I had to drive from northside of Brisbane to Ipswich everyday for 5 months. I would pick up the mail from our head office which was relocated to the Grange after the floods on my way to work. I kept a logbook of my kilometres driven everyday. Can I claim fuel/travel allowance when I do my tax."

By: Trish Ubank on Jul 23, 2011 10:34AM

"After everything you have been through Trish, I hate to be a bearer of bad news but I doubt that the ATO wolud approve your travel as you are still travelling from home to work. Any travel during the day (eg between old office & new office) would be claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 09, 2011 10:30PM

"I work for a horse training establishment, Once a week I use my own car to take bulky horse rugs from the workplace to a laundry service, and then to pick them up after cleaning. I am not reimbursed by my employer for using my car. Can a claim a tax deduction for work related car expenses? Your advice would be appreciated."

By: Cary Morris on Sep 02, 2011 8:50AM

"You sure can Cary. Keep an accurate record of the amount of kilometres that you travel throughout the whole year."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 09, 2011 10:32PM

"I run a restaurant business and I have one of the rooms in my house as an office to do my bookwork for the business from there as I do not have any space at work for an office. Can I claim my travel to and from work? "

By: KELLY REID on Nov 03, 2011 7:02AM

"This is a tricky one Kelly - if you can demonstrate that your first trip of the day is to your home office (to do bookwork) and then the second (or subsequent) trip is to your business then you would be able to claim your travel but you would need to be careful in demonstrating that is really the case. "

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 28, 2011 11:20AM

"My regular office is in the city. 2 or 3 times a month I travel interstate and have to drive to the airport early morning. Often coming back late at night. I assume I can claim the journey airport to home as it is late at night. What about the journey early morning to the airport.?"

By: Fred on Nov 26, 2011 11:58AM

"Should be fine to claim that travel as it is a trip for business purposes & you are carrying bulky items (luggage)"

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 28, 2011 11:44AM

"Hi there, I use a personal vehicle for work and receive a car allowance. My question relates to work related car expenses. If i do some minor performance modifications to the vehicle in question am i able to claim these expenses?"

By: bob on Dec 03, 2011 10:19AM

"The modifications are essentially a capital expense which you can depreciate under the log book method - your claim will be reduced by any private usage. If the cost of your car is over the $57,466 luxury car limit then it wouldn't be deductible in any instance."

By: Mr Taxman on Dec 05, 2011 3:06AM

"I am starting a new job and will be out on the road going bewteen several different work sites every week, the company doesn't give a CC it also doesn't pay by the kl or pay a CA, this is ethical? I was told to submit my car expenses each month and they will work out how much gets repaid back. i need advise before i start this new role. I live in Vic."

By: deb on Dec 10, 2011 8:51AM

"I don't think they are very nice to not compensate you having to use your car for visiting sites - generally most companies pay a car allowance based on the ATO rates (dependent on size of car engine) http://www.ato.gov.au/individuals/content.aspx?doc=/content/33874.htm "

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 26, 2012 3:00AM

"I am considering doing some contract employment in another city which would mean I travel to the other city and stay there during the week. If the employer will not pay for this, can I claim the travel and accommodation expense?"

By: Adrian on Jan 30, 2012 6:21AM

"Adrian - it is unlikely that the travel & accomodation will be deductible if it is a contract relationship - if it was with an existing employer & you were required to live away from home then that would be a different story."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 30, 2012 6:25AM

"G'day, Once every six weeks I am on 24 hour call, so I have to take bulky tools and parts home in case I am called out to a customer site. On these days I have no option but to commute by car. Can I claim these trips between home and office as a tax exemption? Thanks. "

By: Steven on Feb 01, 2012 10:32AM

"I think you will be fine as you are carrying bulky tools"

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 13, 2012 10:43AM

"Hi, I run a small business from home as a sole trader - I have an office set up at home to do this. I also do the same kind of work as a contractor for a company at their office 2 days a week. I believe I can claim my travel b/c I always work from home in a given day. My question is whether I can claim the 5000km cents per kilometre method separately - ie up to 5000km once for my travel as a sole trader, and then and up to 5000km again for travel as an employee? They are claimed separately on separate parts of etax, so I'm not sure..."

By: Lachy on Feb 22, 2012 5:51AM

"Lachy - I have always been conservative on this one & only claimed a total of 5000km between the two. I suggest that if you are travelling more than that each year for work / business purposes then probably the log book method would be the best to claim in any instance. "

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 13, 2012 10:49AM

"Hi there. I'm self-employed and invoice customers to do their office work and bookkeeping at their business - can i claim (using the cents per km as the total kms for the year was 750) the kilometers traveled from my home to the client's home? "

By: Lara on Mar 05, 2012 2:18AM

"Lara - you shoul dbe able to claim your travel when your home is a base of employment – you start your work at home and travel to a workplace to continue the work"

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 13, 2012 10:47AM

"I am starting a new job where I get a car allowance & use my own car. I will go to a new site each day straight from home & back to my home each day. Is this all claimable as I do not have a base."

By: Kathy on Mar 06, 2012 10:27PM

"Kathy - are you travelling to a different site each day? Suggest you look re: iterant work."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 13, 2012 10:45AM

"Hello there, Just wondering if the percentage worked out by logbook method should be rounded up or down and to how many decimal points?! eg - my business usage is 75.6757% Do I use 75% or 76% or 75.7% or something else?! Thanks Smithy "

By: Smithy on Mar 24, 2012 1:24AM

"Being the precise accountant that I am, I would use 75.6757% and work out your tax deductible expenses to the dollar."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 27, 2012 10:46AM

"If the company pays me per km, can I still claim the travel on tax?"

By: nathan on Mar 27, 2012 10:56PM

"Nathan - techniclaly you cannot claim a deduction for something that you have been reimbursed for ... however if your work pays you below the prescribed kilometre rate allowed by the ATO then you can claim the difference in your return"

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 28, 2012 1:14PM

"I am paid a flat rate of $400 for roughly travelling 700kms which is to cover car depreciation and petrol (i only travel to the one place when required) My boss initially wasnt taxing me on this $400 but then started to tax it. Can i claim anything? On my tax form the total travel expenses i have been paid is $7200 for the year which is under the Allowances tab on my PAYG Summary? I have records of the kms travelled and petrol receipts? Am i able to claim anything?"

By: Stephanie on Jul 10, 2014 12:23AM

"Is this answer still applicable in 2018? The allowance is on my pay slip and explained, as being separate, but in my e-tax return it's added to my total assessable income, but I didn't think it should be? Or do the ATO people take that into account in its calculations? Thanks"

By: Lisa on Jul 22, 2018 11:20AM

"I would like to know the answer to this question"

By: heather on Jul 19, 2013 5:50AM

"An employee needs to go on a site inspection early the next morning, so takes the pool vehicle home the previous night and does the inspection and returns to the office the next morning. Are all three parts of the travel business (work/home, home/site, site/office)? Is there a legislative reference for this?"

By: Eddie on Apr 04, 2012 3:29AM

"Hi, for my work I am travelling >5k kms per year in my private car that I have a loan on. Can I claim depreciation cost of the car, interest paid on the load based on the percentage of travel I do for work??"

By: Kevin on Apr 09, 2012 1:05PM

"Kevin - yes you can claim the work-related portion of the depreciation and loan interest along with your other running costs (such as petrol, rego, insurance, repairs, servicing, CTP). Make sure you do your log book for at least 12 weeks!"

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 09, 2012 10:30PM

"Hi i am a Gardener i travel around 80km per day for 3 days a week. which method could be best for petrol tax refund. another thing is i am planning to buy a used 4 wheel drive car for my work purpose which cost around $4500. will i be able to get a refund for the car Thanks"

By: Justin on Oct 01, 2012 12:51PM

"12480 kms per year (80 x 3 x52) probably means that the logbook method would work best for you as you can only claim a maximum of 5000km under the cents per kilometre method. You can claim depreciation on cars based on work usage % under the logbook method."

By: Mr Taxman on Oct 02, 2012 12:33AM

"I don't understand how this is allowable? I thought normal travel expenses between home and work were not deductible?"

By: Natasha on Jul 01, 2013 11:18AM

" 1. he is carrying bulky items (mowing equp) 2. some mowing jobs may be new, so he is not going to the same place day in day out"

By: oh natasha on Aug 09, 2015 1:38PM

"Hi! My husband has just returned his company supplied vehicle (tool of trade it was listed as on payslip), and has elected to receive a car allowance as part of his salary instead. This is taxed at his current tax rate as far as we can tell. We now need to purchase a ute for him to use (carrying tools/equipment) and are trying to work out if novated lease is better or regular financing. What, if anything, could be claimed at tax time? Interest payments? Depreciation of the vehicle? Apologies if this has been answered, but we are struggling to find an answer on this topic."

By: Sarah on Apr 14, 2012 9:45AM

"If you take out a loan or hire purchase then you claim the interest & depreciation of the vehicle. If you take out a lease then you claim the lease payment (ie no interest nor depreciation). This is subject of course to work related percentage which should be 100% if you purchase a commercial vehicle with greater than one-tonne. Only other running costs, such as petrol/diesel, rego, insurance, CTP, repairs, tyres, battery and servicing, will also be eligible to claim."

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 29, 2012 7:18AM

"My husband gets a travel allowance in exchange for a company vehicle, is he still allowed to claim kms between worksites, some days he can work in 2-3 places."

By: Jo on Oct 15, 2018 11:56PM

"Hi, We have just bought a new car as my wife got a new job. But being she hasnt been employed for 3 months we had to do the finance and register the car in my name. Can she still claim car expenses as a tax deduction? Many Thanks"

By: Terry on Apr 15, 2012 2:15PM

"Yes she can claim the car expenses so long as she can demonstrate that she is the one using the car for work purposes & effectively paying for the running & financing of it."

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 29, 2012 7:19AM

"i have to travel in tram for some of my work related meetings between my office and my client's office. Can i claim this amount and I have not kept any tickets as proof as such?"

By: Mike on Apr 30, 2012 11:38AM

"Yes Mike you can claim that amount. You should keep your receipts (tut! tut!) but the ATO will allow you to keep diary entries to record your small expenses ($10 or less) totalling no more than $200. "

By: Mr Taxman on May 03, 2012 12:25PM

"I am an IT Professional and have been a full-time contractor for the past 5 years. I engage a 3rd party which provide me Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurances, as well as payroll services. In exchange, I pay them a small percentage of my income, and they engage a work contract with my current place of employment. Officially I work for the 3rd party company, and they have a contract with the place where I perform the services for. My question is - as part of my contract renewal, I have been able to work from home at least 1 day per week now (I no longer have to commute 100km round trip 5 days per week). Previously my understanding was that I could not claim any vehicle related expenses - can I now claim car related expenses now that I work from home one day a week and visit the site office the other 4 days?"

By: Matt on May 09, 2012 12:44AM

"Unfortunately Matt you would not be eligible to claim this travel as you are not travelling between work places. I suggest that you also check the ATO's contractor tool to see if you are truly a contractor or really an employee. "

By: Mr Taxman on May 09, 2012 1:20AM

"Hello there I have been told by my boss that I have to travel 2 hrs to get to a meeting. and that this is a compulsory meeting. should my boss be paying for my travel expenses to get to this meeting. Regards Colleen"

By: colleen on May 12, 2012 10:15PM

"I don't know what the Award would say but as far as aI know, alot of employers do not pay for this travel. That said though, I would definitely be asking them if they could pay a kilometre allowance considering that you will probably be using a full tank of petrol along with the traditional wear & tear."

By: Mr Taxman on May 13, 2012 8:28AM

"My employer is going to take my company car off me and instead provide me a $16,000pa car allowance. I am a serviceman who needs to carry large parts and I have no fixed place of work, therefore I am considered to be an itinerate worker by the ATO. I am looking at purchasing a dual cab ute which has a carrying capacity in excess of one tonne. The ATO considers a vehicle with a carrying capacity of one tonne or more to be ineligible for a work-related car expense deduction and instead claim a work-related travel expense deduction. So what is the difference?"

By: Glen on May 17, 2012 1:25PM

"My employer is going to take my company car off me and instead provide me a $16,000pa car allowance. I am a serviceman who needs to carry large parts and I have no fixed place of work, therefore I am considered to be an itinerate worker by the ATO. I am looking at purchasing a dual cab ute which has a carrying capacity in excess of one tonne. The ATO considers a vehicle with a carrying capacity of one tonne or more to be ineligible for a work-related car expense deduction and instead claim a work-related travel expense deduction. So what is the difference?"

By: Glen on May 17, 2012 1:26PM

"No real difference as far as I am concerned - one you claim in item D1 of the tax return & the other you claim in D2. Your assessable deductions and taxable income would be the same under either item."

By: Mr Taxman on May 24, 2012 4:35AM

"I bought a car in 2010 for approximately $60,000. I need to lodge both my 2010 and 2011 returns as I have been behind. I have kept a logbook for those years and am trying to work out the best option for work related car expenses. My issue is that due to the luxury car limit, I am unsure whether I need to take into account the 2010 rates (57180) in relation to the 2011 tax return and the subsequent claim I will make using the diminishing value method. Do you know whether I have to deduct my claim for the 2010 fy, from the $57466 in order to make a claim for the 2011 fy? Thanks "

By: Cezar on May 21, 2012 8:07AM

"As you are using the diminishing value method of depreciation, you use the written down value (cost base - prior depreciation) as the base for future depreciation ... I would envisage that this opening written down value in 2011 should be lower than the $57k"

By: Mr Taxman on May 24, 2012 4:38AM

"Hi, I travel from home to an office to carry out outsourced IT duties, 1 day a week I travel to another office in the city, can I claim this travel expense from home and back again as it isnt my usual workplace"

By: Justin on May 22, 2012 7:11AM

"Hi, I travel from home to an office to carry out outsourced IT duties 4 days a week, 1 day a week I travel to another office in the city, can I claim this travel expense from home and back again as it isnt my usual workplace"

By: Justin on May 22, 2012 10:41PM

"Unfortunately not Justin."

By: Mr Taxman on May 24, 2012 4:39AM

"Why would this not be allowabl?. The ato says that if you work at a site that isn't your usual workplace ie clients , then this is deductible."

By: John on Nov 14, 2014 10:59PM

"Hi, I have a second job that requires me to travel in my own car on weekends to and from different locations. Each day is one location. My employer is reimbursing me on a per km rate that is lower than the standard ATO of 74c p/km, however I have been informed that they pay for travel from home to work and back at this rate (The full round trip). They said the ATO would only pay for the portion from the place of work to home at 74c so in effect I end up with more back in my pocket. Is the information about the ATO correct? If the ATO doesn't reimburse for the first journey (home to work) as I have been told, is this on a daily basis or cumulative for the whole weekend? (i.e would only the first trip of the weekend - Saturday - not be paid but all of Sunday be paid?)"

By: Louise on May 23, 2012 3:34AM

"ATO bases car travel on a daily basis. Home to work not deductible AND work to home not deductible either. You need to show any income received as part of your taxable income."

By: Mr Taxman on May 24, 2012 4:54AM

"Hi there, I'm in a role where I receive a car allowance as I'm required to travel from home to a different business location each day & then back home again. (Only one location per day). We generally then work from home the rest of that day. Generally we are only in the office 2 times per month for meetings but they may be looking to increase this for days we are not on the road. Max would be 5 days per month. Question, work has just dropped our car allowance rate down as they have suggested that we cannot claim the first 20 km and last 20km of our trip. Your thoughts?"

By: MCaralyn on Nov 19, 2015 7:06PM

"I work full time in an office for a large company and receive no km allowance. I do the odd work related travel - maybe 500km/year. I also work as a gym instructor. Some classes I do are as a casual employee of the gym. Other classes are under my ABN (sole trader). Am I correct in thinking that I can claim (i) my travel for my main job of 500km/yr. (ii) travel from my main job to gyms where I am a casual employee AND (iii) all Km's where I am travelling as a sole trader (using my ABN when invoicing for my services)?"

By: Andrew on May 25, 2012 11:03AM

"Andrew - yes to (i) and (ii). With respect to (iii) generally the first & last trip of the day it couldn't claim but it will depend on whether you carry alot of bulky equipment with you"

By: Mr Taxman on May 26, 2012 4:17AM

"I am a nurse educator at Tafe and I am required to travel 2-3 times per week to other campuses to train students. As 'workplace simulation' is part of the training experience I transport 2-3 storage crates, laptop,projector, books and other resources and a folding trolley. I take all these from my workplace the night before to my home., and the following morning take them with me to the other campus, then back to my place before returning them to my main place of employment the next day. Can I claim travel from home to the other campuses ? Can I claim travel on the day before when I transport the equipment to my home, and the day after when I return the equipment?? I receive no petrol or other allowance for the use of my own car."

By: yvonne on May 26, 2012 4:02AM

"Yvonne - you should be able to claim the car travel when you have the bulky equipment in your car."

By: Mr Taxman on May 26, 2012 4:20AM

"My husband has started a new job. Part of his job entails the "possible" visiting of clients after hours. His workplace has told him that he needs a car to be available for such travel. He is currently using my car. My question is that if the workplace is insisting he drive to work (he prefers public transport), can he/we claim expenses for doing so?"

By: SW on May 28, 2012 1:37AM

"Unfortunately not SW - he could only claim the actual work-related travel & not trips between home & work."

By: Mr Taxman on May 29, 2012 11:58PM

"I am starting a new job which requires me to use my own car. I do not get paid a car allowance. I will earn $13,600 per year from this job + $15,600 from another job (no car use required). I will travel 2000-4000 business kms per year for the first job. Is it worth it for me to do this job or will I be out of pocket? Thanks for your help"

By: Kylie on May 30, 2012 10:42AM

"In this day & age where work is hard to get, any job is worthwhile taking. As a rule of thumb, use the ATO's cents per kilometre rates to determine your costs of running your car. Based on 4,000km per annum & a 75cemts/km rate, you are out of pocket by $3k which still leaves you $10k. My motto always is, "if you see $10k on the ground, would you pick it up?" Sometimes getting experience & building your resume is worth the hard work now. Good luck in the future."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 02, 2012 12:59AM

"Hello, I recieve a car allowance and I am paid mileage. What do I need to claim my insurance and depreciation of my vehicle? Thank you "

By: Han on May 30, 2012 10:32PM

"Your car allowance & mileage needs to be shown as income in your tax return. Up to you but it would be a good idea to claim as much as you are legiitimately able to claim & from experience, keeping a log book & all your receipts is the best way. If you own your vehicle (or have a loan/hire purchase), then you can claim a portion of the depreciation. "

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 02, 2012 1:02AM

"If I use a family car its owned by my parents, only car available at home, is it eligible for claiming car expenses provided the claim is all work related. Many thanks"

By: Bigbear on May 31, 2012 9:30PM

"If you are the baby in the family & called Big Bear, then I would hate to see the size of Papa Bear! The ATO will allow you to claim car expenses of a vehicle that belongs to a family member so long as you can demonstrate that you use the car for work-related travel and that you contribute to the running of the car (eg petrol, rego, insurance, etc)"

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 02, 2012 1:04AM

"I am a nurse. I have to travel 310 kms to work, where I do 4 x 12 hour shifts over four days then I travel 310kms back home. I have to pay for temporary accommodation for the four nights I am away. Am I entitled to any tax deduction for these expenses?"

By: Peter on Jun 04, 2012 10:20AM

"I'm in a similar situation and am interested to know the answer to this question too"

By: Matt on Jun 07, 2012 11:15AM

"I don't believe you would be Peter - whether you live 31km or 310km away from work your accomdoation is a personal expense & preference. Would be different if you actually got transferred by the same employer from one hospital to another & required to live away from home."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 11, 2012 10:24AM

"Hi Taxman, I worked as a Engineer and I am getting $100 PW as a car allowance for using my car. I usually travels betwwen the sites and office. My annual Km running is approx 4000kms. Can I claim a car expenses, any car insurance or for the service done on my car?"

By: Sandeep on Jun 07, 2012 3:17AM

"Based on doing 4000km you are probably worthwhile just claiming the cents per kilometre method (which ias based on engine size) - howvere you could claim a percentage of the car running costs if you keep a log book for a minimum if 12 weeks. Basiclaly use the method which results in the highest deduction."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 11, 2012 10:20AM

"Hi taxman, my partner is paid 74c/km for his mileage on his car usage. He has just become aware that his company is adding this to his salary on his pay slips under travel allowance. Does this ultimately mean that he records a higher salary rate. (Implications with child support payments if this is the case). Can the employer just pay the allowance without adding this onto his salary? If that is the case, what must he do to establish this with his company. Have rung the tax dept with no success in answering these questions. "

By: Joanne Love on Jun 13, 2012 3:36AM

"If it is added to his salary income then when you lodge his return, merely offset his work-related car expenses claim at item D1 in the return. His taxable income should be the net amount then & no impact for chilc support."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 25, 2012 7:10AM

"Hi, last year we did some travelling through QLD & NT while my husband was looking for work - he did manage to do some work in a few different places during the trip. I want to know if we are able to claim for any of the travel expenses, ie. petrol & accommodation costs."

By: selena on Jun 14, 2012 10:58AM

"I extremely doubt it Serena."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 25, 2012 7:13AM

"Hi, I am a PA and am required to leave my office during the day to check PO Box and purchase my bosses lunch then return straight to the office. I also make visits to bank and pick up stationery requirements. These errands do not cooincide with my personal lunch break / nor do I run these errands before or after work. Am I able to claim fuel expenses on my tax return?"

By: Nat on Jun 15, 2012 10:50AM

"If trips to the post office are done during the day - rather than on the way between home & work - then you should be able to claim these kilometres in your tax return."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 25, 2012 7:19AM

"Hi, my husband has a job where he has a company van ( he is a commercial cleaner ) when he took the job he was not aware that he would have to pay for the petrol and parking fees in the car as a result of the constant travelling each day - sometimes attending 3 or more job sites a day , it is quite alot of money out of pocket each week . We are hoping we will be able to claim it back - do you have any advise ?"

By: Robyn on Jun 22, 2012 2:23AM

"Sounds like he should do a log book for 12 weeks to work out his workd-related usage %. He should then be able to claim thaht % of the vehicle running costs. Get him to keep all receipts. Probably an idea that he sees an accountant for the first year to help get an understanding."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 25, 2012 7:16AM

"I am starting business as a sole trader in the medical field treating people in clinics. I am paid as a contractor. Am I entitled to claim all my petrol expenses from home to the various clinics."

By: Elaine on Jun 24, 2012 6:46AM

"Firstly Elaine you need to maintain a log book in order to claim your petrol expenses (as well as other car running costs). Secondly, if you do work from home then you can claim the travel from home to the various other places."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 25, 2012 7:12AM

"I work in Events and would like to travel to the USA to under take a non paid internship at a cycling event. Can I claim flights etc as this internship teaches me how to better run events? Thanks"

By: Hayley on Jun 25, 2012 7:49AM

"Trish - it will depend on how much of your trip is related to the cycling event & how much is related to personal travel. Also you will need to show a strong tie between the cycling event & the events that you do (eg do you do sporting events or business conferences?)"

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 25, 2012 8:22AM

"I get paid a set travel allowance, but the money I get doesn't cover the costs of running the car. Can I claim the difference through tax? I also was told I needed to upgrade my car by my employer, can I claim my loan, rego, insurance etc on the car? Thanks for your help!"

By: Samantha on Jun 26, 2012 9:41AM

"Yes you can claim the difference on tax but you need to work out your work-related portion by keeping a 12 week log book. Log books last for 5 years unless you change your car or you change the nature of your job."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 28, 2012 8:06AM

"Hello - during FY11 I used my husband's car for my business, including having the back seat and boot full of my products and equipment. I paid for the petrol when I used it (and when my husband used it, he paid for his petrol). I didn't keep a log book and I'm not trying to claim rego or depreciation. I simply want to claim the petrol I paid for and used as part of my business. Can I do this without a log book? Thank you for your help."

By: Elizabeth on Jun 29, 2012 7:04AM

"Unfortunately you can't claim petrol without keeping a logbook. Alternative is to claim up 5000kms based on the cents per kilometre method as mentioned above."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 02, 2012 12:47PM

"Hi Mr Taxman, I have an ebay business on the side that I sell second hand car parts. I use Australia Post as my preferred distributor. I am unable to visit the post office during the week day due to my primary employment. My wife works part time during the week and has been taking the parcels to work and then stopping of at the post office on the way back to pick up the kids from school the terminating either shopping or home. The parcels are at time bulky in size and vary in dimension and weight. She also does regular pickups from the same post office, which I re-sell on ebay. My query is whether this is an allowable deduction for travel expenses? Are you able to advise what options are available, if any? regards Michael"

By: Michael on Jul 01, 2012 6:01AM

"Hello, for a while this year I worked as a temp through an agency - they would ring me and tell me where I had to go and I would go straight to that office (not via the agency office). Can I claim those km on my tax? Thanks "

By: Shirley on Jul 01, 2012 7:35PM

"I don't believe you would be able to Shirley - sorry!"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 02, 2012 12:48PM

"I travel a lot with work (about 30,000 business km's this fin year) and claim mileage through work, but obviously have been taxed a lot on 25,000km, what claim can I make to get some of this tax back. I have a full log book of all of my business km's. Thanks Dave"

By: David Fairhall on Jul 02, 2012 3:47AM

"You can claim all your car running expenses David based on your % work usage from your log book. Expenses include petrol, repairs, servicing, rego, insurance, tyres, batteries, CTP, pink slip, lease payments, interest on loans/hire purchase & depreciation (if owned)."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 02, 2012 12:51PM

"Hi, I live in Sydney and travel every Monday by car to Canberra to perform some contract work and drive back to Sydney every Friday. I carry my laptop with me plus the luggage for the whole week. Can I claim car expenses, like mileage, etc... The log book is available. Thanks in advance."

By: Val on Jul 03, 2012 11:35PM

"Unfortunately Val the ATO wouldn't consider this work-related travel."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 05, 2012 11:28AM

"I have a company car supplied for my role, as I work in insurance and need to take my car to various appointments during the day. My work buy the car and pay all costs (except cleaning and parking), and I have it was part of my package (comes up as an FBT amount on my group cert). All I am concerned about is the parking, I pay thousands per year in purchasing a permanent car park so I can go in and out without early birds. Can these car parking expenses be claimed under D1 or D2?"

By: Leigh on Jul 04, 2012 11:33AM

"Leigh - a deduction is not allowable on the days that your car is parked for one or more daylight periods exceeding 4 hours in total at, or in the vicinity of, your primary place of employment. For days where the time parked is less than 4 daylight hours then you should be able to claim provided that car travel is part of your employment requirements."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 05, 2012 11:37AM

"Great, thanks!!"

By: Leigh on Jul 05, 2012 10:40PM

"Hi I work for same employer but at different stores in a same day. I mainly work for one store out of 7 but on an average 3 to 4 times a week i am required to travel from my main work location to another location for the same employer on the same day.I work on a weekly roster base and every week I am rostered at two location on the same day. however my alternate work location is uncertain it could be any other than my main location. Can i claim travel between two location as well as travel from alternate work location back home?"

By: Andrey on Jul 04, 2012 11:58AM

"You cannot claim the first & last trips of the day, regardless of where you ultimately end up Audrey. Any trips during the day between locations are potentially claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 05, 2012 11:39AM

"thank you so much! "

By: Andrey on Jul 08, 2012 11:39AM

"hi, just wondering if i can claim anything, as i dont drive to my place of work i only drive to clients houses??? please help. thank you"

By: Jacinta on Jul 07, 2012 4:41AM

"Depends Jacinta - will need more information from you such as what do you do for work? Do you travel between clients each day? Do you visit different clients or the same ones? Do you work from home? Do you have any bulky items that you need to take with you?"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 07, 2012 8:07AM

"Hi, My husband works as a retail manager at a major chain store and often gets relief appointments at stores different to his main store (for weeks at a time). He gets paid an per km allowance which is added to his income for the tax year. When he works at the other stores he doesn't go into his main place of employment, he travels from home to the other store. What kms can he claim? Thanks!"

By: Lisa on Jul 08, 2012 6:38AM

"Sounds like he wouldn't be able to claim anything Lisa if he is merely going to & from work each day, albeit at different locations."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 09, 2012 12:10AM

"hi, can you claim the 5000kms on two cars?"

By: Alex on Jul 08, 2012 11:27PM

"Yes it is possible Alex if you can demonstrate that you genuinely use them for work-related purposes. The ATO may question your calculations so be particularly careful in going to the boundary but not over it."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 09, 2012 12:07AM

"If I had one car at the beginning of the tax year then sold it and bought another car. Can I claim the 5000km on both cars. I work in Sales so doa round 35000km a year."

By: Paul on Jul 09, 2012 2:42PM

"Sure could Paul if you did the kms for each car. However if you are doing 35,000km per year for work purposes then why aren't you using the logbook method? Probably costing yourself thousands in legitimate tax refunds."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2012 12:26AM

"Hi, Can i claim the cents per kilometre method if i am travelling to work for compulsory meetings/training courses eg first aid which i am not rostered for. Also if i have to travel to the city for training courses related to work, can i claim the car related expenses to travel there. "

By: Matthew on Jul 09, 2012 8:22AM

"I don't believe you coul dclaim the travel to work but would be able to claim the travel to the course. A deduction is allowable for transport costs in connection with a course of education in the following situations: (a) the cost of travel between home and the place of education and then back home; (b) the first leg of the trip, if a taxpayer travels from home to the place of education and then on to work (the cost of travelling from the place of education to work is not a self education expense); (c) the first leg of the trip, if a taxpayer travels from work to a place of education and then home (the cost of travelling from the place of education to home is not a self education expense); (d) the cost of travel between work and the place of education and then back to work. "

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2012 12:34AM

"Hi there , I started a job at a new place about 1.5 years ago (wood machinist) . Since working there i have brought a new triton ute as i now need to carry 2 large tool boxes to and from work everyday . I can't leave them safely at work (even though i work in a warehouse) as the night shift staff turnover is huge and alot of stuff goes missing. that and i use my tools at home a fair bit too . I travel a little over 46k's return everyday . I generally do my own tax but i know i am missing out on claiming stuff as i'm not quite sure what i am entitled to claim . From what others in my workplace say, these km's are claimable and they claim them . Is that the case and would i be able to claim anymore than 5000 as i do over 11000 a year ? . Thanks in advance , Jacob"

By: Jacob on Jul 09, 2012 9:54AM

"If you want to claim more than 5,000km per year then you must use the logbook method & keep all receipts for the whole year for your vehicle running costs (inlcuding petrol, repairs, servicing, rego, insurance, CTP)"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2012 12:36AM

"Hi there, I am a TAFE teacher nd teach at 4 different venues each week. I work one day from home. I am always carrying bulky items in my car to use for my delivery. I have kept a log book of all my trips with the destination, origin, date, and total km. I did not put the odometer reading. Is this necessary with all the other info i have provided? Also i have travelled more than 7000km for work how do i put that into expenses? Thanks"

By: Nicko on Jul 10, 2012 8:00AM

"Unfortunately Nicko, the ATO requires that you keep a record of the opening & closing odometer readings for each A log book must contain the following entries: For a particular journey: * the date the journey began and ended * the car's odometer readings at the start and end of the journey * how many kilometres the car travelled on the journey * why the journey was made. and Generally * the date the log book period begins and ends * the car's odometer reading at the start and end of the log book period * the total number of kilometres that the car travelled during the log book period * the number of business kilometres travelled during the log book period (as opposed to kilometres travelled on private matters) * the business percentage - this is calculated by dividing the total business kilometres travelled by the total kilometres travelled during the log book period. You need to keep all your receipts for the whole year for the running costs. "

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 11, 2012 4:56AM

"I would like to know if I can claim back my travel costs if I am working for a teaching agency. I travel to many different schools throughout the week some of them further than others. Because this is supply I dont get paid for holiday periods either. Can I claim anything back?"

By: daniel on Jul 11, 2012 8:30PM

"You cannot claim your travel between home & work despite some days being further away than others. "

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 13, 2012 3:19AM

"'Hi I worked for a employment agency(casual) for about 5 months travelling from my home to around 16 different locations.They paid petrol allowance 0.72 cents for me to use my own car. Please advise if I can claim service and other running costs. Thanks"

By: Vicki on Jul 13, 2012 6:52AM

"You could claim the running costs of your car Vicki if you maintained a log book for a minimum of 12 weeks & kept all of your receipts. "

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 13, 2012 6:54AM

"Hi, I am a sole trader conducting an engineering consultancy business. The PSI rules apply for the 11-12 financial year. I just moved myself and my family via my personal vehicle from Hobart to Sydney for a fixed term contract of 6 months and then back to Hobart at the end of the contract. Can I claim any of these relocation costs as vehicle expenses under the c/km hour method? Thank you very much for your help. As always pouring through the convoluted Australian tax system."

By: Alex on Jul 13, 2012 10:04AM

"Relocation expenses are not deductible - if you had them paid/reimbursed by your work they could have been FBT Exempt though."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 16, 2012 5:40AM

"Hi. I am contracted to work at a particular base station where my work equipment is stored. Occasionally I am required to work an overtime shift. If I were to work an overtime shift at another location, this would require me to transport my equipment there. Am I able to claim the kms from home to and from this alternate location? Thanks."

By: Phil on Jul 13, 2012 3:42PM

"You would only be able to claim between home & the alternate location if you were carrying bulky tools - sounds like that you would need to go to main office & collect tools - so could only claim the travel between work & alternate location."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 16, 2012 5:39AM

"Hi there, I am a regional manager for a company where I am required to visit various customers that I account manage, but also visit new opportinuties to try and sell too. If I go to appointment directly from home, can I claim this as business travel? Thanks"

By: Jason Rooney on Jul 15, 2012 11:50PM

"Usually someone in your position would have a desk at head office (rather than having to work from home) - so you wouldn't be able to claim the first trip of the day from home."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 16, 2012 5:36AM

"Hi there, thanks for the response. What is the first trip I did was 200km away to a regional client? Thanks"

By: Jason on Jul 16, 2012 6:41AM

"Distrance doesn't matter - can you go to office first & then go to the regional client?"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 16, 2012 6:44AM

"Hi, if I claim using the cents per kms travelled as I have travelled less than 5,000km, can I still deduct other related costs such as insurance and petrol. I travel from home to various locations for work and is not based on a set location. Thank you for your help"

By: Meg on Jul 16, 2012 10:33AM

"Unfortunately Meg you cannot claim the car running costs (via log book method) as well as the cents per kilomtre method."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 17, 2012 1:04AM

"Hi - I am a community care worker and sometimes go to 7-8 clients a day I am called between 2.00pm & 4.00pm and am given names of clients and their address mostly in my own car. Whern there are reasons that I need to take a client out for shopping etc I am given a company car and need to drive to head office from my own home. I am paid 74cents per km. when I use my own car. I had to sign a form that I need to have my car comprehensive insurance. What am I able to claim please?"

By: Olivia on Jul 19, 2012 11:13AM

"Sounds like you do alot of travelling throughout the year Olivia. I would be doing a log book & claim the work-related % of your car running costs (including petrol, rego, insurance, repairs, servicing, depreciation & interest on loan)."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:08AM

"Hi-I am reimbursed by my company at 74c/km which is paid through my monthly salary then taxed. I also have work related travel which I have not claimed through my employer. All together I would have travelled less than 5k kms. How do I claim it? Do I claim the allowance under D2 and the remaining under cents per km method in D1?Thanks"

By: HM on Jul 20, 2012 5:31AM

"Claim it all under D1."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:09AM

"Hi, I use my personal car to travel from the office to visit clients. My employer pays me an allowance of $1 per km for this and I keep a logbook. I believe the allowance is not taxed on my payslip so the amount gets taxed when i put it in my tax return under 'income'. Can i still claim a deduction in D1 for the business km's? Travel was under 500km this tax year. Thanks!"

By: Walter on Jul 20, 2012 7:42AM

"What a generous employer. About time they pay something that more closely resembles the cost of running a car these days, particularly with the high petrol prices. Yes claim your car travel in item D1 and show the amount received as income."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:11AM

"Hi, I work as an administrative officer in a small business. I often make trips from my home to get office supplies/go to the bank/post office etc on my days off. Can I claim any of these?"

By: Daeny on Jul 21, 2012 5:43AM

"Very nice of you to do work on your days off! Unfortunately if you don't work from home then you won't be able to claim th etrip from home to the post office on these days."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:13AM

"Hi, my normal workplace is 5 minutes from home in the suburbs. I am now on a secondment for 13 months at the same company's head office in the city. Can I claim travel expenses (ie train ticket) while I am seconded to the city as this is not my usual place of work?"

By: Anonymous on Jul 22, 2012 5:18AM

"Unfortunately not. "

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:14AM

"Hello - what expenses are considered covered by the 5,000km allowance (eg is it only meant to cover petrol, R&M and depreciation)? I also have tolls and parking expenses - can I claim these in addition to the 5,000km allowance? Thanks!"

By: Lainey on Jul 23, 2012 5:44AM

"Tolls, parking, taxis, trains are all considered separate work-related travel expenses from car expenses and can be claimed in item D2 of your tax return Lainey."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:15AM

"Hi taxman, a bit of a different one for you. My partner and I were living in SA where he was working on a construction job. This job finished and he was required by his employer to relocate to WA for a new construction job. We were required to pay for relocation and travel costs and were told that a set amount would be reimbursed at a later date (however this didn't happen). My question is can he claim relocation costs on his tax return."

By: Rebecca on Jul 23, 2012 12:27PM

"Relocation expenses are not tax deductible. Disappointing thing is that if his employer reimbursed him then they would have been exempt from any fringe benefits tax. "

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:16AM

"Hi, I am a sole trader that use my car as part of my business actiity item 15 - net income or loss from business motor vehicle expenses - i have used the log book method repairs and maintance - have completed that the following is i am not sure i am correct other expenses can i claim fuel costs insurance parking fees home office expenses and those four expenses allowed under "other expenses" "

By: Kylie on Jul 24, 2012 5:57AM

"The fuel expenses should form part of your claim for motor vehcile expenses but the other expenses that you mentioned can go under the "Other expenses" item."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:18AM

"i do community work travelling to at leat6 places a day, I get a kilometer allowance from work only for in between clients not home to work and back. Can i claim for home and back? Also why am I not taxed in my pay on these kilometres but at tax time this amount is included in taxable income? confused "

By: elle on Jul 24, 2012 8:54AM

"Unfortnately Elle you cannot claim between home & work & back. Employers generally don't tax allowances as they are generally tax-neutral when you claim them in your tax return. Better for you to have the money rather than the ATO during the year I guess."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:24AM

"Hi there i work night shifts every second week, as at this time there are no busses or trains that run when i am finished work i have to use my car to travel both too and from work every second week for the full week, are there special rules for this sort of thing or am i still not able to claim work to home travel expenses. also i am paying off a loan on my car am i able to claim loan payments considering i would not be able to get to work without my car due tonight shift."

By: luke on Jul 25, 2012 2:17AM

"I know it sucks Luke but the ATO do not make an special exemption for people in your situation to claim your travel between home & work despite it being impossible to get to work otherwise. Sorry. "

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:26AM

"Hi. I work two jobs (at separate companies) as a community worker. I drive my car for both jobs going from client to client. I get a km allowance for both jobs. I do alot of km's for each job. My question is whether or not I can claim 5000km for each job rather than a total of 5000km between the two jobs. Cheers"

By: Peta on Jul 25, 2012 9:25AM

"You can claim a maximum of 5,000 kilometres in total per car per year Peta. Sounds like it may be an idea to use the logbook method if you are racking up 10,000 kms."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:28AM

"I am a sports teacher and i aqm always carrying sports gear, footballs, cricket kits, boundary flags in my car to travel to schook and sporting venues. is this classed as bulky goods when i travel betwween home and school?"

By: JOHN on Jul 26, 2012 4:41AM

"They would probably qualify as bulky items John but the ATO would be interested to know a) why you couldn't store this equipment at school in a secure environment and b) what days of the week do you need to carry that builky equipment (as obviously it wouldn't be everyday of the week)."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2012 11:30AM

"Hi Mr Taxman, Im an employee for a small business and my office is my home (as stated in my contract). My job involves travelling from home (my office) to and from different sites, day in and day out to conduct work there. Can I claim anything? "

By: Alex on Jul 30, 2012 9:03AM

"You are travelling FOR work rather than travelling TO work so your trips wold be deductible. Suggest you keep all car running costs receipts & do a 12 week logbook."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 31, 2012 1:29AM

"Hi ... I receive a car allowance and will be doing various site visits and other driving that I will be able to claim. What I would like to know is for those days I drive to work with the "Bulky items" which are samples of our products, can I claim the travel to and from home / work or does there have to be a customer / site visit between each. These items need to be in my car at all times as site visit requests come at regular intervals and sometimes I cannot plan for them. Thanks"

By: Mark on Jul 30, 2012 9:51AM

"The ATO allows you to claim travel to & from work with builky items if you don't have a secure place to store them each night at work. It must be a necessity rather than a convenience of having to bring the bulky equipment each day to work."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 31, 2012 1:35AM

"Hi there, can you claim mileage and parking fees for the same trip?"

By: Ange on Jul 31, 2012 3:16AM

"Sure can Ange."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 06, 2012 1:15PM

"My husband has a vehicle that is owned by his company/business. He uses that for business and claims 50% of it there. About 25% is private use and the rest I use for my job. Can I claim 5000kms on this car even though we don't technically own it - we incur 50% of the costs some of which is for my work?"

By: sammy on Aug 02, 2012 3:41AM

"I would need more facts but probably not Sammy. Suggest that you talk to his company accountant Sammy as I suspect that the car is subject to FBT & the costs that ye pay personally are probably employee contributions. "

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 06, 2012 1:18PM

"Hi. Iam paid a Car Allowance of $10,000 per year and travel quite a bit foe my employment. I purchased a $30,ooo car for cash and use it around 80% for work purposes. If I were leasing the car I know I could claim on tax, but can I claim any tax deduction for a one off cash car purchase?"

By: Greg on Aug 02, 2012 11:40PM

"You can claim the depreciation of the cost of your car (less 20% personal usage) Greg. I generally use the diminishing value method of 25% (based on an effective life for the car of 8 years as per ATO guidelines). Note that you need to pro-rata the depreciation in the first year of purchase. "

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 06, 2012 1:15PM

"Hi, I have around 3000 km under D1 as a business km to claim and also 4000 km under D4 as for the purpose of work related self education purpose category D. Can I claim both as 5000km rule under cents per km? "

By: Shajib on Aug 03, 2012 12:24AM

"Maximum clain is 5,000 business kilometres per car per annum in total."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 06, 2012 1:13PM

"Hi, I started delivering newspapers for a bit of extra money last year. I had no idea that I could claim for fuel expenses and did not keep any records of the cost/number of Kms I did. I know I do 110Kms a week and had been doing that for during the recent tax year. Is there any way I can claim on that? (As I have not done my tax return yet). Cheers"

By: Daniel on Aug 04, 2012 12:14PM

"*Edit* 110 KMs a week for 44 weeks."

By: Daniel on Aug 04, 2012 12:18PM

"You sure can Daniel - simplest way is the cents per kilometre method in item D1 of your income tax return. The rate is dependent on the size of your car. If you don't use your car much for personal purposes then maybe consider doing a 12 week log book. You can also write a letter to the ATO asking for an amendment of prior year returns for teh travel that you inadvertently forgot to claim."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 06, 2012 1:12PM

"Hi There Taxman, I currently have a package that includes a $12500 un published (except for my contract) allowance for a company provided vehicle. I am currently due for a replacement vehicle - at $62,000 over 5 years from my salary plus tax allowances and depreciation, and costs, how much should I be allowed to spend. Current kilometers PA is approx 25,000klm and approx 90% work use, what should I be allowed to spend at the showroom floor? "

By: MickyMoo on Aug 06, 2012 10:49AM

"Hi There Taxman, I currently have a package that includes a $12500 un published (except for my contract) allowance for a company provided vehicle. I am currently due for a replacement vehicle - at $62,000 over 5 years from my salary plus tax allowances and depreciation, and costs, how much should I be allowed to spend. Current kilometers PA is approx 25,000klm and approx 90% work use, what should I be allowed to spend at the showroom floor? "

By: MickyMoo on Aug 06, 2012 10:49AM

"Hi There Taxman, I currently have a package that includes a $12500 un published (except for my contract) allowance for a company provided vehicle. I am currently due for a replacement vehicle - at $62,000 over 5 years from my salary plus tax allowances and depreciation, and costs, how much should I be allowed to spend. Current kilometers PA is approx 25,000klm and approx 90% work use, what should I be allowed to spend at the showroom floor? "

By: MickyMoo on Aug 06, 2012 10:59AM

"Not quite sure of the question that you are trying to ask me MickyMoo. There are a few leasing companies that can provide you with an accurate costing of how much a salary-sacrificed car would cost (based on all of its various running costs). From experience, something similar to what you are saying would be in the vicinity of $18-$20k per annum."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 06, 2012 1:09PM

"Hi Taxman, I used to travel between 3 to 4 different construction sites every day. I have travelled nearly 6000kms a year. My company pays me car allowance of $100 PW and also have a fuel card provided by company. Can I still able to claim any car expenses?"

By: Sandy on Aug 07, 2012 1:52AM

"You will need to show the allowance as income but you can show your work related car expenses as a deduction in item D1."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 07, 2012 7:32AM

"I recently started a small business working from home as a sole trader where I provide administrative services on a contract basis to my customers.All my admin functions and record keeping functions are conducted at home as well as some work for smaller customers. I currently have to travel across the city each day to a construction site where I provide my services. Its about a 50km round trip and I am recording the distances in a vehicle log book. I am also paying a flat fee every day for parking. Can I Claim cents per kilometer and also the parking expenses? Thanks"

By: Norbert Weber on Aug 07, 2012 2:34AM

"Should be able to Norbert if you are genuinely based at home."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 07, 2012 7:33AM

"I get paid a car allowance of $12,000 p.a and use my own car. I am a sales rep and use my car for business and personal tasks. Can the $12k get taxed at a different rate as it is listed as car allowance on my payslip and also is the kilometre the best method to claim back mileage through the ATO?"

By: Jon on Aug 07, 2012 4:57AM

"if you travel more than 5000km per annum, I generally find taht the log book method works out best. With repsect to the tax on your car allowance, you can complete an "Application for Variation of PAYG Withholding" with the ATO - it is essentially a mini-tax return done in advance ... note that you will still need to do your normal end of year tax return with the actual figures."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 07, 2012 7:36AM

"My employer has advised they will reimburse me at 74c/km for all my work km. However as I am averaging about 23,000 work km per year in total I have decided to only charge work for my trips out of Sydney metro which total about 20,000km (so none of the shorter trips). The shorter trips though add up to a further 3,000km per year. Can I receive reimbursement from my employer for the 20,000km country km and also claim the additional 3,000km as a tax deduction? "

By: Brad on Aug 08, 2012 1:16PM

"You should be showing the allowance as income and need to claim the whole 23,000km as your deduction - however, as there is a limit of 5,000km I recommend that you claim using the log book method (which means keeping all of your petrol receipts & other running costs)."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 08, 2012 10:16PM

"Hi Taxman, I work in Sales and Marketing and regularly visit customers on the way to / home from work. For example on the way home it is 30km from work to the customer, then 20km from the customer to my home. Am I able to claim the total 50km as business use? Also, I am paid a car allowance of $21,000/year. I am looking to purchase a new car valued at $35k. Is there a tax benefit to purchasing the car outright, getting a loan or purchasing through a novated lease?"

By: Mitch on Aug 09, 2012 1:00AM

"You can't claim te whole 50km - just the trip between work & customer. The very frist leg of your day & the very last leg of the day are not claimable. If you have excess cash & no non-deductible debt then I would strongly consider buying outright. Whilst interest expense is deductible, you only get the benefit back at your marginal tax rate."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 11, 2012 10:40PM

"Hi there, I am using the log book method as I've racked up about 8000KM this Fin year. How do I quantify this into a dollar amount? Am i suppsoed to use a cents per km method? I understand I then must stipulate the amount for business use vs personal, though how do I quantify the km into dollar value? Cheers"

By: Nick on Aug 10, 2012 3:31AM

"You can only claim a maximum of 5000km via the cents per kilometre method (the rates are based on your engine size - eg big cras claim 75c/km). If you want to claim more then you must apply th elog-book method which is working out a percentage work usage based on total kms travelled in the car for the year - and then you must keep all your actual receipts for the whole 12 months. "

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 11, 2012 10:50PM

"i have business km's of approx 8000km for this FY. i am planning ot use the log book method for a car that i own. however the car was purchased in 2003 so i was wondering whats the go with the depreciation as i read on ato website that the effective life for cars is 8 yrs doea that mean i have fully depreciated the car? and so log book method will ot be the best option? your advise?"

By: ajthewall on Aug 14, 2012 3:45AM

"he beauty about th elogbook method is that if you calculate a low deduction, you can then revert to the higher cents per kilometre method. If you used the diminishing value method of depreciation then you might have a small amount of depreciation to still claim this year. Still could be worthwhile when you add in your other running costs such as petrol, rego & insurance."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 16, 2012 6:48AM

"Hi Taxman, as a freight train driver I have to stay away from home every second night, 4 to 5 times a fortnight. I have to carry food, generally 3 meals worth and clothes ect, and quite a bit of work related equipment, (radios, signal torches, tech manuals, safety gear.) the bags would have a combined weight of over 30 kgs and its not practacle to try and fit it all in a locker and repack the bags every shift. I do start at the same depot every shift but there is no transport options other than private car or taxi. I travel a round trip of 84 klms per shift. Am I able to claim my car expences?. Thanks in advance. "

By: M S on Aug 14, 2012 1:39PM

"My gut feel is that it wouldn't be claimable but best idea is to call the ATO & get confirmation from them."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 16, 2012 6:49AM

"My son is an apprentice builder, He uses his car every day for work, carting bulky tools, trailer etc. from home and between jobs. He usually does about 15kms per day. He is paid $65 per week travel allowance (includ in gross income). Can he claim any tax deductions?"

By: Christine on Aug 17, 2012 10:17AM

"Sounds like he could claim his travel & probably the cents per kilometre method is best. Just double check first if he can lock his tools away on site each night first though."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 24, 2012 12:26AM

"Hi this may not really be a tax question but here goes. I am provided a company vehicle that is provided fully by my employer. I keep a daily log of all kms I drive daily separating work kms from personal kms as personal kms are a taxable benefit. Should my employer pay for fuel costs on the company vehicle during my vacation time? I am claiming the vacation mileage as personal mileage on my daily log to be submitted at tax time. Thanks."

By: Def on Aug 20, 2012 6:52AM

"Comapnies generally pay the petrol (and all other running costs) for the whole year, including periods when you are on holidays. However, keep a record of any payments that you make as they count towards the "employee contribution" component when working out any potential fringe benefits tax (FBT) payable on the provision of the company car. "

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 24, 2012 12:28AM

"My Employer pays me a Car Allowance and it is detailed as such in my payslips and group certificates. Does the constitute " an allowance in recognition of your need to travel continually between different work sites and you use this allowance to pay for your travel."? If so would that make trips from home to work tax deductions, considering I have elected to have PAYG deductions taken from this allownce"

By: Phil Ebbott on Aug 21, 2012 4:18AM

"Unfortunately not Phil - the payment of a car allowance supports your case for a deduction but in no way guarantees it. You would need to show other proof to demonstrate that your travel costs are work-related deductions. Otherwise, all employees in Australia would be getting their employers to pay some of their salary as a car allowance. "

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 24, 2012 12:31AM

"Thanks."

By: Phil Ebbott on Aug 29, 2012 3:36AM

"Hi, Can you please explain the difference between being able to claim car expenses when paid an allowance, but not being able to claim car expenses when an employer reimburses you for particular mileage? Isn't it the same thing? If someone puts in a claim for mileage travelled for each job, and the employer pays them an amount under the set rate per km method, are they still able to claim for car expenses at D1 using the set rate per km method? Should the amount the employer pays them be shown as part of their salary? What if they show the "reimbursement" as an allowance at Item 2?"

By: Tania on Aug 24, 2012 2:31AM

"With respect to car travel, all payments made by employers will be allowances because you cannot accurately predict what the actual reimbursement should be. Any payment is shown as an allowance but you can claim your work-related travel in D1 (with your choice on what method you use) "

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 29, 2012 9:09PM

"Hi, I have travelled overseas 2 times this year for work. one of the trips was in June so i incurred expenses during the financial year but only received an allowance/reimbursement in july(the next financial year) im wondering how I am meant to show this on my tax"

By: Ben on Aug 26, 2012 10:57AM

"I wouldn't show any of th eexpenses that got reimbursed until after July."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 29, 2012 9:06PM

"Hi, my husband works from home one or 2 days a week, then at his employers office on the other days. On the days he is at his work office he generally starts early, working at home in the morning before leaving - answering emails, phone calls, preparing presentations etc - his work day seems to be part of the journey frankly. Can he claim any of his trip from his home office to his work office? He also travels from the office to various sites during the day. We have not kept a logbook, but can esitmate the amount of travel. Thankyou for your help!"

By: Shayne on Aug 26, 2012 1:32PM

"Seems like he does his two hours at home as a matter of convenience rather than actually having to do it from home - that is, there is nothing stopping him from leaving 2 hours earlier & doing the same thing in his office at work ... if that is the case then he is not travelling between workplaces."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 29, 2012 9:11PM

"I have a similar situation, but the work from home entails international calls (mostly to the US) at times ranging from 5:30am to 8am. Practically it's not possible to get into the office to do most of these (need to dress and feed two small children). How would this be regarded?"

By: Peter on Jan 23, 2016 11:36PM

"Hi, i got two different jobs. I work at home as a marker for the university and at the same time i got another job in the factory. Can i claim the car travel expenses? I normally do few hours of marking at home before going to the factory. "

By: James on Aug 27, 2012 4:29AM

"As I am a lecturer at uni & know how much marking goes on & when during the semester, I am hesitant to say yes to question James as I really doubt that you are traveling between two jobs beyond just a few times each year."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 29, 2012 9:05PM

"I am an apprentice and travel to TAFE once a week as it is over 120kms there an back I get a petrol allowance for the kms over that amount.Is my petrol allowance considered as income that I have to declare or is it tax free."

By: Mark on Aug 29, 2012 7:50AM

"It would be considered as income Mark. Good luck with your studies."

By: Mr taxman on Aug 29, 2012 9:03PM

"Hi, I am in sales, and earning approx $150K pre tax, including a $12K car allowance paid by my employer. I am looking to buy a car, at around $34,000. I travel to see clients, which would amount to around 3000km/year, with 5000km/year personal use. I am wondering if I should buy this car outright, or if I should get a loan or some form of commercial hire purchase? Also - is there any tax benefit I can claim for disposing of my old vehicle, purchased for $13K, if I sell it for say, $10K? I have used cents/kilometre method for this car up to now."

By: Lachlan on Sep 01, 2012 7:08AM

"If you claim the cents per kilometre method then it doesn't matter a) what price you dispose old car for; and b) what your running costs are for your car. It is the log book method where it makes a difference. The chepaest form of finance is always best - ask what the interest rate is & see if you can get a better deal elsewhere."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 09, 2012 12:33PM

"I am a medical equipment technician that is required to carry equipment and spare parts for client machines in my car. My home is my base of operations and I am essentially itinerant. On the occasion that I travel from home to my employers office, is this home to work travel deductible? I do have equipment and parts in the vehicle but these are not required for the my visit to the employers premises, they happen to be there because I am on call for client call outs. My vehicle is a normal sedan. Is the home to work travel deductible? If was collecting new parts from the office, does that make the work to home travel deducitble?"

By: sam on Sep 05, 2012 7:30AM

"Sounds like your travel to the head office would be travl for work (as distinct from travelling to work), so that travel would probably be deductible. Crucial is that you are required to work from home, rather than being merely for convenience."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 09, 2012 12:30PM

"Hi. I am a meter reader. I drive my car to a completely different suburb every day for work. Somes days 5km travel from home, somes days 100+km from home. I park my car and walk reading house meters all day in a neighbourhood. I shift my car throughout the day as required - to keep my car nearby for drinks, food, work items. I upload data in field. I then travel back home. My car boot is chock full of items I need for meter reading - cards, sticks, torches, rain gear, drink esky etc. my employer pays me a daily car allowance. Q. am I considered an Itinerant Worker? My employer says I am not an Itinerant Worker because I"don't use my car for reading meters". But I'd argue I cannot do my job without using my car! Any thoughts appreciated. Thanks"

By: Marcus on Sep 05, 2012 7:42AM

"No idea with how bulky your equipment is but you definitely have a case to be labelled as an itinerant employee."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 09, 2012 12:35PM

"Hi I was wondering if you can please give me some advice. I recently got a second job and also work full time. It so happens that my second job is located in the same building as my primary Employment. However, the 2nd job means I work late on Mondays/Tuesdays and evry weekends. Because of the times I finish on weekdays, I take my car and park it closeby for safety reasons and also because of lack of transPort when I finish. Can I claim the parking fees/fuel/etc on the second job for the weekdays worked? I normally don't work on weekends so I believe I can claim travel expenses for the second job. Just wasn't sure about the weekdays as I also work with the first job on these days. Your help is much Appreciated"

By: Daisy on Sep 05, 2012 1:07PM

"I don't believe that you would be able to claim these expenses Daisy as the travel in question is between work & home, rather than in between jobs."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 09, 2012 12:28PM

"Hi. I am hoping to get some advice on claiming work related travel expenses for carrying bulky equipment. My work requires me to work across three different sites. Mostly I work from each site for a full day, so cannot claim my travel as itinerant. However, I have one testing kit, which is essential to my work and I need to have it with me at all sites. It weighs approximately 20kg. I need to take it to and from work in total 4 times a week so that I have it available to use when changing office locations throughout the week. Can I claim these 4 trips? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. "

By: Dani on Sep 08, 2012 1:09PM

"Sounds like that you could claim this travel Dani, provided that you can't store the equipment on site each day. Are the sites near each other?"

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 09, 2012 12:27PM

"Hi, my wife and I are in a partnership. Our ute is used only for work. Our office is in the house we rent, we drive to the farm every day, usually with bulky equipment as we have no shed there and we also use it to travel to a winery where our partnership makes wine under contract. If every trip is basically for work, do we still need to keep a logbook to claim all expenses for the ute for the partnership? Thanks "

By: Peter on Sep 10, 2012 11:30PM

"You would need to keep a logbook for 12 weeks to demonstrate the 100% business use - unless the ute is at least 1 tonne & then it can fall under the "commercial" vehicle category, which I expect it would."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 19, 2012 8:45AM

"Hi I have been offered a new job that has a $16000 car allowance. Previously I have always had a FMCV. What is the best way to use this allowance. I own a GTP falcon but it is not suitable for the position."

By: Kevin on Sep 11, 2012 4:49AM

"Alot of people spend the whole car allowance on a car. I won't tell you what car to have as that is a personal preference but my recommendation is to spend only what you need to spend. If the old Falcon or Datsun Sunny 180B does the trick then why spend money that you don't need to unnecessarily. If your car deductions are lower than your car allowance, then you will need to pay back some tax to the ATO but that is not necessarily a bad thing. There is nothing wrong with making a profit as your bank balance will rise. Cars cost money so the cheaper that you can run one the better."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 19, 2012 8:50AM

"Ive just started working as a casual cleaner ánd I don't get a allowance for travel, uniforms or equipment. I have to supply my own. Will I be able to claim all these expenses back? If I can how should I keep record of kilometeres travelled, money spent on cleaning equipment/products and uniform?"

By: Kerry on Sep 13, 2012 3:27AM

"You should be able to make a claim for these expenses. For your car, I recommend that you do a logbook & keep all receipts (including petrol, rego, insuramce, servicing, etc). For the cleaning equipment & products, just keep receipts of all your outlays."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 19, 2012 8:55AM

"Hi, I am a personal banker. Once in a week I need to work outside branch at another site to promote our products to other corporate or public. In such cases, i need to used my cars to transport boxes of brochures and a few stand-up banners and get myself to the site. In such events, I drive to my work place to pick up the boxes and stand up banners and then set off. End of day I go back to my work place to unload all the items before going home. Km traveled per week just for such events once a week is around total of 40 - 50km (To and fro). Total km travel per year is less than 5000km. 1. Can I claim tax on these kilometres? 2. I do not keep a receipt for my petrol but pay with my credit card always. Is that already. Thank you Mr. Taxman!"

By: Jason on Sep 15, 2012 12:06AM

"If you are doing between 2,000 to 2,500 kilomtres per year then probably the cents per kilometre method will work best for you. You just need to reaasonable demonstrate the number of kilometres for the year & no need to keep those pesky petrol receipts. "

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 19, 2012 8:58AM

"Hi - I work for a bank subsidiary in a financial planning role. I have no fixed work location and work out of a number of banking centres. My visits to these centres are mostly unplanned and I have to carry quite a lot of promotional material, client info, laptop etc which I need to carry with me. At least 3 days a week I visit clients all over the city and not the banking centres. I am paid a $16k car allowance - my work use of the car will be 92% and I plan to use the logbook method (have kept all records of costs) for my deduction claims. Despite reading thru all the above threads, I am not clear on whether I can claim my car loan repayments, the interest only, or neither. Could you clarify this for me? Thanks."

By: Jeff on Sep 19, 2012 11:56AM

"If you have a car loan Jeff, then under the logbook method, subject to the luxury car limits, you can claim the interest on the loan for the year along with depreciation of the car. (Note: if you have a lease then you claim the lease payments & no depreciation)"

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 29, 2012 12:45AM

"Hi there, I am employed by a recruitment company who's office is in North Sydney. They have sent me to work and be based in western Sydney for the duration of the 12 month contract. Given the location of my employer and the location of my daily work, is there any potential for a claim of use of my car as I drive to work daily?"

By: Ned on Sep 21, 2012 6:55AM

"Unfortunately not Ned. Welcome to Western Sydney!"

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 29, 2012 12:43AM

"Hi. I'm a factory engineer and have a bulky toolbox riding in my car, the tools I use at the factory from time to time. I only travel from home to the factory and back. I'm claiming car expenses. What evidence the ATO might request to validate my claim?"

By: Euge on Sep 22, 2012 9:43AM

"If I was the tax auditor, I would probably want to know: (a) why you can't have the tool box locked up on site each night; (b) which tools that you actually use; (c) if you get a tool allowance; (d) why your employer doesn't purchase the tools themselves; (e) what does your employment contract say about you having to use your own tools in the factory."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 29, 2012 12:42AM

"Hi, I'm a social worker and my job requires that a use my private car to travel to my office and from there use my private car to travel to and from family homes. Can I claim car expenses? What about wear and tear on the car? Thanks"

By: Tan on Sep 25, 2012 10:44PM

"You have two choices for claiming the travel between work & clientele Tan: 1. a simple cents per kilometre based on your travel up to 5000kms per year (this rate makes an allowance for wear & tear) 2. work-related % usage of car running costs based on log book - under this method you calculate the actual wear & tear by depreciating the original cost of the car."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 29, 2012 12:40AM

"I provide technical support to clients at their workplace. At the end of the day I often travel from the worksite to home without stopping at the office. My boss says I cannot claim millage on the distance from the worksite and the office on those days anymore. Have the rules changed? "

By: Jim on Sep 26, 2012 2:32AM

"You have never been able to claim the travel between workplaces if you don't actually go between (but rather go straight home). You may need to look at amending your previous claims."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 29, 2012 12:36AM

"hi i am a student, and work as well. two days a week i travel to the training college, two days a week is done at a work placement facility and i work up to 6 days a week sometimes can i claim any of the travel on tax?"

By: Jess on Sep 27, 2012 3:15AM

"You can claim travel between work & study but not travel between home & work/study."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 29, 2012 12:33AM

"PS The work must be related to your studies otherwise you cannot claim."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 29, 2012 12:34AM

"Hi. If I am doing paperwork on weekends at home then travel into work at some point to do further work will I be able to claim car expenses?"

By: Truong on Sep 30, 2012 3:27AM

"I wouldn't think so."

By: Mr Taxman on Oct 02, 2012 12:30AM

"Hi Would someone be able to explain how the tax refund for works expenses works? If I have a car valued at 40,000 and use the car for 85% work what would my claim for depreciation be? I'm assuming 1st year depreciation amount, apply 85%, then apply my tax rate of 30% would = to the amount I would receive back from the ATO? example: 1st year depreciation approx $10,000 85% = $8,500 Tax rate 30% = $2,550 So my claim received for depreciation of the car would be $2,550.00??"

By: Mark on Oct 04, 2012 1:15AM

"You pretty much have it correct Mark. 25% is the depreciation rate of the opening written down value of the car under the diminishing value method. Then take the work-related % usage & then apply your marginal tax rate - 31.5% though as you have the medicare levy in there."

By: Mr Taxman on Oct 08, 2012 1:35AM

"Hi, I am a dentist set up as a sole trader and hired as a contractor by two different practices. I receive psi which is commission based. My abn is registered at my home address (office) and I provide services at the two different practices on different days. Can I claim business use of a vehicle for travel from home (office) to the practice and back? I carry with me dental loupes, iPad and dental coat. Also if I buy a new car can I claim depreciation/lease repayments for business use of the vehicle and does registering the car as private vs business make a difference to this? Apologies if my questions seem loaded but I have done lots of research and it seems like a gray area. Any help would be great. "

By: pm on Oct 04, 2012 11:00AM

"I doubt that you could claim the car travel between home & the practices. I looked up on google what a loupe is & it tells me that it is a "simple, small magnification device" ... so along with the iPad & coat these are hardly items that the ATO would consider as being bulky. Registering a car for business v private doesn't affect your tax deductibility but may affect your liability if in an accident."

By: Mr Taxman on Oct 08, 2012 1:39AM

"I'm a carer I drive my car to work and home, my employer pays me 25 p a mile but I don't pay tax because I don't earn enough to pay tax, can I still claim milage allowance! "

By: Naz on Oct 09, 2012 2:33AM

"Not sure if you are in Australia Naz (given that you are being paid 25p). You should be able to claim the deduction but as you are under the tax free threshold, don't expect to get any tax back if you haven't paid it!"

By: Mr Taxman on Oct 09, 2012 8:16AM

"hi, I travel approx. 15,000 km a year solely for work purposes, I get 75c per km from my employer for this. I normally claim the 5000km method which gives an approx. deduction of $3800, this seems the best method as my car is 6 years old and on dedicated gas, I would like to know if its possible I dont declare the car allowance or make any deductions. Whats your thoughts on this because everyone I speak to including the ATO tell me different things all the time. My daughter was in the same situation a couple of years ago and got a letter from her employer stating it was a reimbursement, this way she got a special ruling from the ATO, however the ATO has audited her for last year and have not accepted this method unless she gets another letter from her employer who are reluctant to do so now. Thanks"

By: karren on Oct 10, 2012 11:25AM

"My thoughts are that you need to show the amounts received as income - particularly when it is a cents per kilometre amount & not just a one-off tank of petrol - and then you need to justify your claim as per the 4 different methods."

By: Mr Taxman on Oct 18, 2012 8:57PM

"Hi, just wondering i am a mechanic, my workplace does not insure my tools so I take them home every weekend (bulky tools) is the kilometers from work to home and back valid as a tax km claim as I require the tools for work? "

By: Jeni on Oct 10, 2012 1:58PM

"The first question the ATO will ask is whether there is a secure palce to lock up your tools each night?"

By: Mr Taxman on Oct 18, 2012 9:28PM

"Hi there, I am about to move into a job that has a car allowance instead of a FMCV, I will spend limited time at head office but most of it will be visiting up to 5 different businesses per day. Am I able to claim tolls, petrol, servicing, cost of new car etc?"

By: Hamish on Oct 13, 2012 12:23AM

"Travel costs between customers during the day are definitely claimable. Suggest you keep a log book to claim world-related % of running costs of vehicle (including depreciation, petrol, rego, insurance, etc)"

By: Mr Taxman on Oct 18, 2012 8:59PM

"I purchased a new car with a loan. Are the loan establishment fees, administration fees, dealer delivery fees, etc. all claimable in the year of purchase or, if over a certain amount, need to be amortised?"

By: Peter on Oct 16, 2012 10:54AM

"Loan costs are claimable over 5 years or the length of your loan if earlier. Other purchase-related costs are added to the cost of teh vehicle for depreciation purposes."

By: Mr Taxman on Oct 18, 2012 9:27PM

"Thanks, I also purchased an extended 3 year warranty for $1,250. Is this fully deductible in the year of purchase or also has to be spread?"

By: Peter on Oct 21, 2012 4:41AM

"Hello, My partners wants to start a garden maintenance business, I said that he can claim petrol and needs a log book, but he disagrees. An I wrong? "

By: Kelly on Oct 21, 2012 10:45PM

"If he has a commercial vehicle (ie greater than 1 tonne) then no need to keep a logbook. If he has a normal sedan then I recommend that he keeps one along with all receipts."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 09, 2012 2:43PM

"Hi, I use my car often to perform work at customer sites. My company allows me to claim for mileage but I'm unsure is it better for me to claim the car expenses from my company directly or through tax deductions? Please advice which way I save more."

By: Sukh on Oct 23, 2012 3:22AM

"Hi,i travel to different sites for extended periods and i get pai d "site allowance" by my company which is taxed.that doesnt specifically take into account the number of kms i travel,just standard fixed amount. I use my family car(registered in my bros name).i pay for servicing and all vehicle related expenses.can i claim service costs,insuarnce pf vehicle and number of ksm i travel or not?thanks"

By: Jed on Oct 23, 2012 11:45AM

"The ATO allows you to claim work-related car expenses for cars not technically owned by you but by virtue of a family arrangement you can demonstrate that you use the car & that you pay for all the running costs."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 09, 2012 2:49PM

"Always claim back everything you can from yuor company as ou get back 100% whilst through the tax return process you only get a % back from the ATO based on your marginal tax rate (max 46.5%)"

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 09, 2012 2:44PM

"Hi, I am a sole trader veterinarian (with ABN/registered GST) and my employment business is registered as the same address as my Home address.. If I drive from my registered address (home) to a clinic and I invoice them a days work and drive back to my registered address - are travel expenses claimable? My tax accountant says yes as 'Travel is a necessarily incurred expense for me in the production of my assessable income. I only carry minor equipment. What do you think?"

By: Daniel on Oct 23, 2012 9:20PM

"To add to the previous post: The reason why I ask is: Work-related car and travel expenses also include the cost of trips: """between two separate places of employment (for example, when you have a second job) from your normal workplace to an alternative workplace while you are still on duty and back to your normal workplace or directly home from your home to an alternative workplace and then to your normal workplace or directly home (for example, if you travel to a client's premises to work there for the day). """ It seems as though if your home is registered as your work place that it is feasible. "

By: Daniel on Oct 23, 2012 9:42PM

"Do you actually do work at home? Sounds like that you only have it as your registered address but don't actually do any work there (ie only see clients at the clinic) & you wouldn't be able to claim travel between home & the clinic."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 09, 2012 2:41PM

"i am a sole trader ground worker/gardener, i am keeping a daily record of my mileage to and from customers, its roughly 20 miles a day at the moment but will change as i widen my range , can i claim or my vans fuel?"

By: wayne morley on Oct 25, 2012 12:22AM

"YEs you can claim your work-related travel. 20km per day is 100km per week ... or 5200km per year. Probably the ents per kilometre method will be best for you but keep a log book & all receipts & get your accountant to maximise your claim at year end."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 09, 2012 2:39PM

"I work as a clerk in the uni. I use my own car to travel a total of 80 KM from home to office in the Melbourne city every day. Can i claim car expense in 2012."

By: jay au on Oct 25, 2012 12:23AM

"No."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 09, 2012 2:37PM

"My husband drives his personal car for work and receives a petrol card to cover fuel expenses. How do we claim depreciation on the car itself, since this isn't covered by the petrol allowance? He drives the car to work sites and transports equipment and tools. Thanks for your help! "

By: Bridget on Oct 29, 2012 6:24AM

"The ATO allows a depreciation rate of 25% under the diminishing value method. So if the car was originally $10,000 & was pruchased on the first day of a financial year then in year one the depreciation is $10,000 x 25% = $2,500. The written down value is $7,500 which is used as the base for depreciation in the 2nd year (ie $7,500 x 25%). Note that you need to then reduce the depreciation down by the work-related percentage. Also note that you can claim rego, repairs, insurance as well."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 09, 2012 2:36PM

"My small business is motorsport based and we deliver and pick up Safety Cars and Course Cars etc. from Queensland to South Australia down to Melbourne and we are based in the ACT. My office is based at home, would driving to the place of work for the vehicle be considered claimable? An odd one but help greatly appreciated"

By: Nick on Oct 30, 2012 2:58PM

"Sounds like you are "travelling for work" rather than "travelling to work" if your office is based at home."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 09, 2012 2:33PM

"hi there im wondering what the best way to work out reasonable costs for 15000km of work related travel would be. i want to use the log book method because i am way over the 5000km limit for the c/km method. i have receipts for everything except my fuel - which the ato site says i can reasonably estimate. does this mean i can use the c/km rate to work out my fuel costs for the 15000kms ive travelled? thanks."

By: me on Oct 31, 2012 2:38AM

"No you can't use the cents per kilometre rate as this incorporates all running costs (not just fuel). THe reasonable estimate is essentially taking the total kilometres travelled & divide by the number of kilometres that a full tank does (based on manufacturers guide) and then multiply that by the average fuel price for the year in your capital city."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 09, 2012 2:31PM

"Hi, I'm thinking about purchasing a vehicle which is to be used solely for me in my employment i.e. travelling to and from appointments. The purchase price is approximately 50k. I may finance 35 or 30. Can I claim depreciation and if so how much, I've been told that is 22% a year for three years, is that correct and what would be the best way to make the purchase for tax purposes i.e. part finance full finance or no finance, thanks"

By: Mark on Nov 11, 2012 1:15AM

"The ATO allows a depreciation rate of 25% under the diminishing value method. So if the car was originally $50,000 & was pruchased on the first day of a financial year then in year one the depreciation is $50,000 x 25% = $12,500. The written down value is $37,500 which is used as the base for depreciation in the 2nd year (ie $37,500 x 25%). Note that you need to then reduce the depreciation down by the work-related percentage. Note that if you take out a lease (rather than loan or hire purchase) then there is no depreciation but you can claim the whole lease payment (subject to work-related %). My preference is to pay in full but if you have to finance then look for the lowest interest rate."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 20, 2012 10:42AM

"Hi I'm a full time employed earth moving plant operator and looking at buying a new ute for work worth $55,000. I'm wanting to know exactly what and how much I can claim back as I'm getting different information from many different people on this topic. Thanks"

By: Sam jones on Nov 11, 2012 11:14PM

"Hi I'm a full time employed earth moving plant operator and looking at buying a new ute for work worth $55,000. I'm wanting to know exactly what and how much I can claim back as I'm getting different information from many different people on this topic. Thanks"

By: Sam jones on Nov 12, 2012 12:56AM

"Will the ute be used for work purposes at all or merely traveling between home & work? If it is the latter then no of it would be claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 20, 2012 10:44AM

"Hi Mr Taxman. I work a casual 2nd job on weekends demonstrating a household item in department stores. I travel directly from home to each of 2 stores, one store on Saturdays and one store on Sundays. It's always the same stores and the same days. Can I claim km travelled for this job? Thank you!"

By: Kerry on Nov 13, 2012 12:12AM

"I don't know if this makes a difference, but the stores I'm required to attend may change at short notice, depending on the individual stores requirements."

By: Kerry on Nov 20, 2012 12:37AM

"Unless you have to bring the household item to the store each time - and it is considered bulky - then you wouldn't be able to claim any travel between home & work."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 20, 2012 10:46AM

"Hi, I recently purchased a new Ute - 3.5 tonne that I use for work purposes (Monday-Friday)- I am a Project Administrator that requres me to visit our construction sites and to drop off equipment etc.. I would say that I would travel about 300kms per week purely for work and am wanting to know how best to claim for the car, depresiation, petrol, rego etc - the car cost $52,390 and have it on a 3 year loan with a residual payment at the end. I would like to do my own tax return online so your assistance is appreciated. "

By: Caroline on Nov 14, 2012 5:37AM

"I suggest that you empliy an accountant to do your return as they will maximise the deduction for you & you get a tax deduction next year for their fee."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 20, 2012 10:48AM

"Hi.. thanks for such a great help... I am community worker.. and on my group certificate , I can see that I have been paid for allowances for Kilometer Program Mileage (74 cents per kilometer). as I am using my own car for every day work to visit different clients at their homes.. I can see this allowances as a income during my e tax form.. Can I claim whole amount at D1 using cents per kilometer..Thank you.."

By: bipin on Nov 22, 2012 3:02PM

"Yes item D1 is the place to put it. The maximum that you can claim is 5000km x by the ATO rate based on the size of your car. Some employers pick a standard rate & apply to all employees, so if your car engine size is either less than 1.6L or more than 2.6L then you should use a different rate."

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 22, 2012 10:15PM

"Great site very useful"

By: Williams on Dec 06, 2012 1:15AM

"Many thanks for the feedback."

By: Mr Taxman on Dec 10, 2012 7:31AM

"Hi I work as Engineering service contractor(Sole Trader). I travel to company's second site for work 140km to&fro trip.4000KM per annum.I am keeping odometer log book to calculate work related travel %.I invoice 75cent/km to company. Can i claim % of (Car depreciation,rego,Insurance and Repairs) ?"

By: Josh on Dec 12, 2012 12:47AM

"You sure can claim the % log book method despite being paid in cents per kilometre."

By: Mr Taxman on Dec 12, 2012 5:47AM

"Hi, I work as an independant French tutor and I go from student to student to deliver home based private lessons. Can I claim my travel expenses? Also I am considering buying a new car, as mine is takes too much petrol, would I be able to claim the car cost and the depreciation even if I buy a second hand car? Thanks"

By: celia on Dec 12, 2012 6:59AM

"You can claim the travel between students' homes - just not th efirst & last trip (ie to/from home). You could claim your business related percentage of the depreciation - which is a percentage of the car cost - provided you keep a log book for a minimum of 12 weeks. Note that logbooks for previous cars are not valid for later cars purchased."

By: Mr Taxman on Dec 12, 2012 7:54AM

"Hi, I am a Sole Trader providing Remedial Massage. Firstly I rent a whole room in a Medical Centre where there is no laundry to wash and dry medium size bath towels I use for work. In having to take the fresh and dirty towels to and from work, does this constitute bulky equipment enabling me to claim the related trip to and from home to work car expenses? Secondly, if on the trip to and from work (with Towels) I drop/pick kids up from school and then drive back past my home and then on again to work, do I have to stop the car and go into my home and out again to to separate the to school trip from the to work trip to claim car expense deductions for these trips? Thirdly, my business is registered at home, where I daily do a lot of my paperwork and take bookings on my mobile and work related study/ professional development before the building I work in is open, and after it is closed to access for all. There is no after hours access for tenants for medical security reasons Can I claim travel expenses to and from home to my work clinic on the basis of this work from my home?"

By: Susan on Dec 12, 2012 10:48AM

"I have no idea how many towels that you go through each day but "about 20kgs" would be considered bulky. Doing paperwork at home would be considered to be a convenience rather than necessity & taking kids to school would be considered personal travel."

By: Mr Taxman on Dec 16, 2012 4:26AM

"Hi Mr Taxman, I have a salary sacrificed novated lease for my vehicle and am keeping a log book to determine business / private percentage use and intend to reduce my FBT by the ECM method. Question is: I take the back up server hard drive home every night and return it the next day for security purposes. It is not a 'bulky item' but it is necessary to remove it from site and is part of my job description. Would that make the trip between home and work and back again a business use?"

By: Anthony on Dec 14, 2012 1:17AM

"I don't believe that it would."

By: Mr Taxman on Dec 16, 2012 4:26AM

"Hi Mr Taxman, i am still a little confused around salary sacrificed cars using ECM and ability to claim the % business use against the post tax contribution component. I currently use my own vehicle and have a log book which shows just over 90% business use but I am now looking at taking up a salary sacrificed vehicle and want to be clear on whether business usage can still be claimed ?"

By: Martin on Dec 17, 2012 9:51AM

"A new car will require a new log book, even if your job role hasn't changed. You cannot use the log book % from the old car."

By: Mr Taxman on Dec 19, 2012 2:31AM

"Thanks but was wanting advice regarding tax deductions against the post tax ECM component. Furthermore, regarding log book the tax site stipulates: "However, you don’t need a new logbook if you replace a car with another and use the new car the same way for business-use." "

By: Martin on Dec 19, 2012 3:08AM

"Thanks but was wanting advice regarding tax deductions against the post tax ECM component. Furthermore, regarding log book the tax site stipulates: "However, you don’t need a new logbook if you replace a car with another and use the new car the same way for business-use." "

By: Martin on Dec 19, 2012 3:08AM

"You can provide your employer with the % of business use & they will calculate the applicale FBT on the provision of the car."

By: Mr Taxman on Dec 19, 2012 3:15AM

"Hi Mr Taxman My normal hours of work are Mon to Fri. Can I claim travel expenses for travelling to work on weekends (ie. outside normal hours). Otherwise I am out of pocket as I do not get any allowances etc. Thanks Simon"

By: Simon Blackman on Dec 20, 2012 12:37AM

"Unfortunately not."

By: Mr Taxman on Dec 21, 2012 7:52PM

"Hi. I've just been promoted and I now get a 1600/month car allowance (I believe its untaxed). I will complete a log book for 3 months to work out my business usage but would like to know how much I should be spending per month on my loan for the vehicle to ensure I can claim as much as possible.thanks"

By: Marc on Dec 31, 2012 5:59AM

"Blow the whole lot if you like but my recommendation is that you run your car as cheaply as possible. If you make a profit & you are taxed at the end of the year then all good. I would rather pay 31.5% tax on $5000 that I have than pay no tax on nothing in the bank."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 07, 2013 10:18PM

"Hi, This question is on work related travel expenses. Pardon me if I posted it under the wrong topic. I recently got a job in regional Qld where I'm on a DIDO role for up to 11 days at a time. There are two project sites that are hours apart. I'm also required to travel to visit vendors at various places. I have been provided camp accommodation and meals and my salary includes a project allowance, which is taxed. I don't receive any tax free LAFHA or other travel allowance. I understand that I can't claim any tax deduction for living expenses, but I do have some medical issues that don't let me eat at the camp. I get take away meals or those that are specially prepared and pre-packaged for my dietary requirements. Would I be able to claim meal allowance in my tax return up to the limits specified as reasonable in the ATO taxation determination TD 2012/17? Could my site allowance be treated as travel allowance for the purpose of deductions? This is from my employment letter: "A site allowance is to compensate you for working in accordance with the site conditions and additional hours of work inclusive of weekends and public holidays. This component of your remuneration is only payable whilst working in accordance with the site requirements and while based on site." Thx"

By: Regioneer on Jan 04, 2013 5:27AM

"If you received a meal allowance from your employer then you can claim up to the limits without receipts. No deduction otherwise. Site allowance not the same as a travel allowance but you would need to demonstrate any travel that you want to claim is work-related."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 07, 2013 10:21PM

"Hi, I work as a Contractor Community Nurse. I visit people in their homes for care. My car is 2009 model bought for 14000 and I do around 150 kms x 5 days a week. How much petrol, depriciation I can claim? Thnx!"

By: Danny on Jan 09, 2013 1:18AM

"Depreciation would be 25% of the written down value of the car at the start of the financial year (or if bought during the year then the cost & pro-rata the days owned during the year). You would also need to reduce the depreciation by private usage so you need to do a log book for minimum of 12 consecutive weeks & compare your work v private travel. You need to keep all your petrol receipts as well."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 09, 2013 4:33AM

"Hi. I use my own car to travel to the post office to collect the company mail each morning and then in the afternoon I use it again to go to the bank. Approx 3360km per year. I also have a small company that I run from home and use my car for deliveries pick up supplies etc. It is approx 4000km per year. As the total exceeds 5000km, can I claim both of these amounts using the cents per km method?"

By: Julie on Jan 09, 2013 8:09AM

"You can claim a maximum of 5,000 kilometres in total per car per year Julie. Sounds like it may be an idea to use the logbook method if you are racking up 7,360 kms"

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 11, 2013 4:10AM

"Hi. I am classified as an itinerant worker and claim my trips to and from home. Several nights a week I stay at my partners house, she lives approximately 12km from me. If I travel from my last work location directly to her house is this still treated as a "home" journey?"

By: Greg on Jan 09, 2013 9:10AM

"I think the ATO would consider her place as your home destination. Would obviously be different if you went to your normal home & then visited her after work."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 11, 2013 4:07AM

"Wondering... I work in the health field as a P.S.W. providing service to numerous clients at their home within the community. My office pays for the mileage (not to and from) but if there are several hours between clients, I go home. In this case they do not calculate that trip so I am to estimate the mileage between the two clients instead. However, can I claim those km on my taxes as work related?"

By: Lin Da on Jan 16, 2013 4:38PM

"I probably think that you could claim the travel during the day between home & work as it you are doing itinerant work. My opinion may change if it is a daily occurence."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 25, 2013 8:17PM

"Hi Mr Taxman! I am a Home and Community Carer, I always travel numerous of the clients in a day. I only get paid .75C per km. in between clients. I was wondering how much is the km. rate allowed by the ATO? So, when i record my kms. on the logbook do i have to record the start odometer and end odometer in a day eventhough i get paid in between clients. How about when I go for a lunch break? Can i claim the mileage as well?What I've been recording on my logbook i only record the mileage from home to the first client and from the last client to home. I'm not sure if i did it properly.Thank you."

By: Sally on Jan 18, 2013 10:29AM

"Don't record yuor private travel (ie the trips between home & work) but only the ones that are work-related (ie between clients). The ATO rates are dependent on the engine size of your car with 75c/km being the highest for cars over 2.6L. Note that you can only claim a maximum of 5000km under this method so if you are doing lots of travel then probably a good idea to keep a 12 week log book & all receipts for the year."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 25, 2013 8:21PM

"I do not understand how the ATO can possibly not allow travel to and from work as a work related expense. As an example, one person is on $80,000 pa, they can walk to work, not travel costs. Another earns $80,000 but they have to drive to the bus station to catch the bus to their workplace. Public transport costs $3,500 net pa, then there is the cost of running the car. The ATO says this is a personal expense??? It is a work related expense no matter which way you look at this, as this person would not be travelling an hour each day spending over $4,000 net pa in public transport costs if they were not working. Public Transport costs in Brisbane have increased 37.5% in 4 years. The ATO classes travel costs the same as buying lunch...while I can understand this, because you have to eat regardless of where you are, no-one can justify not being able to claim travel to and from as a work related expense. why has this not been challenged. Please explain to me how the govt can justify this."

By: Bella on Jan 18, 2013 10:33AM

"Interesting opinion Bella - I am not the one making the rules, so I am not going to do a whole lecture justifying them. However I would point out that those living close to work would probably like to claim their additional rent or mortgage interest as the reason for their reduced travel expenses."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 25, 2013 8:12PM

"Mr Taxman, a work related expense is an expense that you derive in the course of your employment. I would not be incurring these sorts of travel expenses if I was not working, it is not a personal expense, as I said it is an expense that I incur in deriving an income. Simple. If the cost of public transport was not so high then it wouldn't be such a problem. You mention the cost of where your house is may be higher....that is a rediculous argument."

By: Bellas on Jan 28, 2013 10:23PM

"Not going to try & argue with you Bella about what the tax law should or shouldn't be but I was just highlighting that some people move & pay more in rent so that they could be closer to work."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 28, 2013 10:28PM

"Hi there. I got a 1 tonne van. Can I claim petrol for my courier job?"

By: jack tran on Jan 19, 2013 8:41PM

"Sure can. Just need to keep all your receipts for the year along with other runnig costs of the van."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 25, 2013 8:05PM

"Hi Mr Taxman,1 year ago I purchased a car on my ABN but soon after stopped working the job that required the ABN so have not claimed anything on the car. I now have started a new small business as a consultant that requires me to use my car all the time, what can I claim on for tax on the car? Fuel, loan payments/ Interest, services, tyres etc?? Thanks for you time =) Christy"

By: Christy on Jan 20, 2013 5:21AM

"Good luck in the new business Christy. Suggest you do a log book for 12 weeks showing the business usage of the car. You will be able to claim the percentage of your running costs (Fuel, services, tyres etc) as well as the interest on your loan. You can also claim depreciation on the vehicle based on that percentage."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 25, 2013 8:08PM

"Hi, I have recently started a business run from home which I work at each day (set work area, etc), but also have a full time job elsewhere. Can I claim train tickets for travel between?"

By: Anthony on Jan 23, 2013 3:50AM

"Would depend on the nature of the business & your employment but I probably wouldn't be claiming them unless proven otherwise."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 25, 2013 8:09PM

"Hi Mr Taxman, my company pays me a car milage allowance of 70c/km when working at our other 2 sites away from my normal place of work. What can I claim back with regards to my vehicle expenses, eg maintenance, rego, insurance, fuel, depreciation."

By: Paul Bird on Jan 24, 2013 5:53AM

"Simplest way to claim would be the cents per kilomtere method based on your engine size (75 cents/kilometre if over 2.6L) but if you think that you will do more than the 5,000km allowed under this method then worthwhile doing a 12 week logbook and keep all receipts for running expenses for the whole year."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 25, 2013 8:35PM

"If one of my sons works as an off sider and has to have an ABN number and pay his own tax can he claim the petrol it costs to drive to work. The expenses to repair his car and food whilst on the road"

By: Cheryl on Jan 26, 2013 12:41AM

"Definitely can't claim any food & suggest that he wouldn't be able to claim any travel between home & work unless he has to carry bulky equipment that cannot be left on site. Also I suggest that if he is effectively working fulltime then he should not be on ABN but rather be paid as an employee."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 26, 2013 1:33AM

"Hi MT I have been offered a role where I receive $20,000 CA. I expect to do between 30,000 and 40,000 kms per annum with around 90% business. Novated lease is not offered so would I be best off with a 3 years car lease on a new car. Basically I am an employee doing a lot of business mileage. I could request a novated lease I guess but I am not sure it would be of significant benefit with the FBT going to 20% and not how to compare? I can request a tax variation with the CA so I am not out of pocket day to day. This is a great service you do! thank you!"

By: Joe on Jan 27, 2013 7:09AM

"Thanks for the kind words Joe. FBT probably wouldn't be too high if you are doing 90% work-related travel. However it sounds like the company accountants don't want the extra work in running the car themselves. Suggest you choose the lowest form of finance that you can - is re-draw on homoe loan an option?"

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 28, 2013 8:02PM

"Hi, im a contractor and started to travel for the company. Do i charge them for kilometres only (they suggest .74cents per kilometre) or kilometre and petrol usage?"

By: sally on Jan 28, 2013 10:43AM

"It is entirely up to you two to work out an arrangement that both parties are happy with. the ATO rates are a good basis for negotiation although I do think a bit low given the hike in petrol the last 3 years."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 28, 2013 8:00PM

"My wife works from home for Bank of America in north Carolina, not claiming a home office deduction since it is not forced on her, but she goes in to the office about once a week for work. Can i claim those miles she drives to and from the office? thank you."

By: Eric on Jan 28, 2013 5:08PM

"North Carolina is a lovely spot but I have no idea of the US tax system with respect to personal deductions - I am based in Australia."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 28, 2013 7:58PM

"I have recently been offered a job with a large organisation with offices in Sydney & some regional towns. I have a token office which I am attached to, but I am not required to be based there as I live in the country and not near any of the offices. I will mainly work from home but am required to attend the Sydney & regional offices on a regular basis. When I visit these offices I will usually stay for about a week before returning home or going to the next office. I have to pay my own transport and accommodation costs. Will my travel to the offices and the hotels be deductible? Should I package a travel allowance to recognise that my job requires me to travel to various offices? Should my contract state that it requires me to perform my duties from home and to travel to various offices? Sorry about all the “should I” questions. "

By: Mark on Jan 29, 2013 6:26AM

"Yes to all your "Should I" questions. Not necesssary but desirable."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 31, 2013 12:34AM

"Hello, I have accepted a new sales position whereby the package is a total of 95k (ex super). 15k is allotted for car allowance, employer has offered to either pay be 80k salary + 15k car allowance or 95k all in. I will be travelling on the road 75% of the time meeting customers. I bought my car one year ago for 22k on a loan. Which option will net me the most money at the end of the day? (Ps bonus not related to base salary and im not as concerned about super contribuitons as i am canadian and may not be here long term). Thanks much for your helpful advise!"

By: Lisa on Jan 30, 2013 11:34PM

"No difference between the two options as you will need to show $95k as taxable income & your allowable deductions wouldn't vary based on structure of package."

By: Mr Taxman on Jan 31, 2013 12:32AM

"Hi again MT. Thanks again for previous advice. Talking to my bank now and if borrowings can be arranged as a mortgage (which they have indicated as very likely) then the borrowing rate is about half of 'normal' car finance. :) The big issue with car allowances is the misinformation being spruiked by companies and car dealers. Last night I was told emphatically by a car finance manager who works for a major dealership that he has been doing this for 15 years and he can tell me for certain that car allowances are not taxed. Which is just BS. You can apply to the ato for a tax variation to reduce the taxable income and as long as estimates are accurate there will be no problem come tax time I believe but could stand to be corrected if I have this wrong? My issue now however is with depreciation. He also told me that I cannot use a depreciation method. I am planning on purchasing a demo with low km's and paying off over say 5 years. If I buy the car next week is it depreciated 25% at the end of this current financial year or is there some pro rata calculation or is the dealer correct in saying I can't use a depreciation method. Thanks in advance once more MT"

By: Joe on Feb 01, 2013 12:33AM

"Yes the car allowance is taxed but you can get a variation for your PAYG based on your expected deduction at year end. With respect to claiming depreciation, you cannot claim depreciation if you arranging a lease (but can claim the whole lease payment - principal & interest) ... if you are getting a loan or hire purchase then you can claim the depreciation but only the interest component of this type of finance."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 01, 2013 12:39AM

""if you are getting a loan or hire purchase then you can claim the depreciation but only the interest component of this type of finance." so I can only claim 25% depreciation on the interest paid not the vehicle value? a lease would be much better then wouldn't it? I think I must have misunderstood?"

By: Joe on Feb 01, 2013 1:07AM

"Lease: depreciation is zero but can claim the full lease payment Loan/hire purchase: depreciation is 25% of the cost in year one (and then opening written down value in each subsequent year) + interest only component of repayments for the year Of course, you will need to multiply by the work-related percentage as per 12 week log book & all other car running costs (petrol, rego, insurance, repairs) can be claimed under both scenarios. Over the course of 5 years, assuming the same interest rate, it shouldn't really matter which type of finance that you take out."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 01, 2013 1:14AM

"ahhh...that make sense thank you. So how does it apply (depreciation) for purchase part year ie If I buy a car next week do I depreciate by 25% 30th June this year and then 25% of the written down value the next year etc? or is it a pro rata thing. You seriously are a great bloke for doing all this for people"

By: Joe on Feb 01, 2013 1:31AM

"OK - say you buy a $30,000 car with 150 days to go in the financial year, then the depreciation in year 1 is $30000 x 25% x 150/365 = $3082. In year 2 the opening written down value is now $26,918 so the depreciation would be $26918 x 25% = $6,729. Year 3, the opening written down value is now $20,189."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 01, 2013 1:38AM

"I have read different interpretations on providing both a car allowance & a E-tag for tolls. I presume car expense deductions are in D1 & Tolls in D2. Should the car allowance include E-tag costs? What is your opinion?"

By: david on Feb 04, 2013 2:48AM

"Yes D1 & D2 are the places for those respective deductions. There is no rule saying what employers should or shouldn't provide with respect to travel but if I was the employer then I would ensure that my employee is adequately covered (ie not out of pocket) with any travel. And being an accountant, I realise that time is money so I would rather my staff use the toll roads as they are generally quicker going from A to B."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 05, 2013 10:39AM

"Hi, I have recently started a new job. I work from home four days a week and go to the office once a week to do administrative work. Can I claim for the travel to the office as my home is my base of employment? Thanks"

By: AT on Feb 04, 2013 5:01AM

"If you are travelling to your employer's office on the 5th day of the week then I don't believe the ATO would allow that deduction. My answer would probably be different if you travelled on one of the 4 days that you worked from home."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 05, 2013 10:39AM

"Hi, Thanks for your answer. Does it mean that if I work from home 5 days a week and traveled to the office on one of those days (weekly) that I can claim the car travel expenses (to and fro the office) on that day? Thanks again"

By: AT on Feb 05, 2013 10:40PM

"You should be able to."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 11, 2013 10:21AM

"Hi Mr T. I work as a Private Investigator doing surveillance work. The vehicles I use belong to my sister and she lets me use them if I pay expenses on them. Can I claim on these vehicles as if they belonged to me, being that she's a family member? Also I get paid per km from my clients as well as travel time based on my hourly rate. The km rate usually varies between 60c-80c. What can I claim for this? It's my first year as a Sole Trader doing this work so please give me as much info as you can as to what I can claim? ie petrol, kms, repairs, travel time etc. FYI I have been keeping a log book for both vehicles used. "

By: Paula on Feb 04, 2013 11:48PM

"despite not owning teh vehicle, if you can demomstrate that you are incurring the expenses of it running & use for work related purposes then you can claim a deduction for your travel. Suggest you keep a 12 week log book & all receipts for expenses for the year & at end of year you can decide which methor is best for you to claim."

By: Mr Paula on Feb 05, 2013 10:41AM

"I manage my own cleaning business and my business is based at my home (home is principal base of business. Can I claim car expenses from my home to a cleaning job and then back again? Can I also claim any part of my mortgage as a tax deduction and my electricity and water bills?"

By: Steven on Feb 05, 2013 5:40AM

"Yes you should be able to claim those travel costs. I would shy away from claiming part of mortgage & water bills but would encourage claiming of electricity (34 cents per hour)."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 05, 2013 10:43AM

"Thanks Mr Taxman for clarifying that for me. The electricity bills are in my wife's name would that make a difference?"

By: Steven on Feb 05, 2013 11:24PM

"No difference - just need to demonstrate that you contribute to payment of electricity which I am sure you do."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 11, 2013 10:20AM

"Do I need to record the electricity I use for my business ie: use of computer. If so how do I record this?"

By: Steven on Feb 12, 2013 5:58AM

"I would use the 34 cents per hour method ... the ATO website has a good page explaining it http://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/content.aspx?menuid=0&doc=/content/00227845.htm&page=5&H5 "

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 13, 2013 12:46AM

"Thanks Mr Taxman for simplifying that for me, makes much more sense"

By: Steven on Feb 13, 2013 10:08PM

"Hi, Im actually a middle school student and i'm doing a project focusing on business simulation. Im wondering weather driving or catching a taxi to the Bank in order open a "business" credit card account is tax deductible :? thanks"

By: lee hwang on Feb 11, 2013 11:15PM

"By saying "middle school", I am guessing that you are not in Australia (where I am based). That said, you should be able to claim that type of travel deduction here."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 13, 2013 12:44AM

"My work is paying me for my small trips I do during te day at work how can I work out how much per kilometer they shoul be paying me ? "

By: Michael on Feb 18, 2013 12:38AM

"They can pay you as much as they want really but a good indicator is the ATO's published rates of 63c/km, 74c/km & 75c/km dependent on the size of your car's engine. http://www.ato.gov.au/individuals/content.aspx?doc=/content/33874.htm "

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 19, 2013 9:43PM

"My work reimburses me for fuel via the cents per km method through my fortnightly salary which means that I have to pay tax on the amount (e.g. my last claim was for $285, after tax the amount actually reimbursed was reduced to $187) - is this the correct way to do it? And as its taxed through my salary can I claim it as a cost at tax time? They also only reimburse each trip after the first 100kms - can I claim those 100kms at tax time? Thanks for your help!"

By: KD on Feb 18, 2013 2:21AM

"As your travel allowance is taxable, then your employer is fine to tax it. However you can claim back the travel that you do including that first 100km. Note that 5000km is the maximum claim per annum for the cents per kilomtere method so maybe an idea to do a logbook & keep all receipts for the year."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 19, 2013 9:46PM

"I am not permanently employed, but have been hired as a casual on-hire contractor (potential duration of 12 months). This job requires me to travel 120km each way between home and work. I use my personal car for this purpose, which is not leased or financed. After an initial period of training, I will be able to work from home a couple of days a week. Would I be able to claim any car expense deductions in this scenario?"

By: Tom on Feb 19, 2013 12:15PM

"The key is are you travelling TO/FROM work (not tax deductible) or travelling FOR work (tax deductible) ... if you are doing work at home during the day & then travel to the other office then this would be claimable. But days when work is only at their office then the travel to/from is not allowable as a deduction."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 19, 2013 9:48PM

"Hello. For the last couple of years I have been an employee for a youth work agency, ie, being called up from home with short notice to work anywhere around Melbourne. Would this qualify me as itinerant? and as such could I claim these trips? Thanks"

By: Lachlan Smith on Feb 20, 2013 2:02AM

"I doubt that you would qualify as an itinerant worker."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 20, 2013 7:44PM

"Hi I work for my self in the construction industry. I recently bought a ute, which I use to transport tools and materials on a daily basis. Can I claim my monthly car repayments as a loss."

By: Andrew on Feb 20, 2013 2:27AM

"If you have a lease then the repayments would form part of your running costs but if you have a loan or a hire purchase then only the interest on the repayments would be potentially claimable (but then so would depreciation of your ute!)"

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 20, 2013 7:46PM

"Hello, I have a few questions regarding changing over business cars. Firstly, I should point out that I am a Sole Trader. Anyway, I purchased a secondhand vehicle for private use in February, 2012. At the same time, and for the past few years I have been claiming 92% business usage on a separate vehicle. On June 30/July 1 2012, I decided to swap the vehicles over with regard to usage. On July 1, I stopped used my business vehicle for business. Instead (and since then) I now use the new vehicle (purchased Feb 2012) for business - and estimate the business usage to be an identical 92% (as per the logbook for my orignal vehicle). Now, the vehicle I originally used for business has been used for private use now for the past nine months. What happens when I now go to sell this vehicle? At the end of the last finanical year, when I stopped using it for business purpose, I had depreciated the vehicle to $28000. What happens if I now sell the vehicle for (say) $32000 - given I have been using it now for private use - and have not claimed any further expsenses/deductions? Also, how do I now account for the depreciation of the newer vehicle that I purchased in February 2012? That vehicle was purchased for $55k in February 2012. I could not claim depreciation on this vehicle for the period between Feb and June 30, 2012 because the vehicle was used for private purposes at that time. My question here is what would be the starting value for depreciation purpose on July 1, 2012. I imagine it can't be the orignal $55k purchase price because the vehicle has aged/depreciated four months to July 1, 2012. Your help would be appreciated. "

By: Jeff on Feb 21, 2013 4:39AM

"Thanks for the short question Jeff! Apologies in advance if I miss something in my reply. a) yuo need to do a new log book for your new car - you cannot rely on the old logbook for the old car; b) you depreciate the new car for this financial year on its written down value on the day that you started using it (ie work out what the depreciation was for the period that it was private); c) for the old vehicle, you effectively do a deemed disposal on the day that you transferred it out of the business at its market value at that time ... the ATO will probably find it hard to justify that the market value is $28k when you sold it for $32k at a later date so I would probably use that $32k as a minimum dispoal amount ... any gain on sale above the written down value can be either shown as assessable income (at 92%) or actually can be reduced off the purchase price of the new car (ie a lower amount that can be depreciated). This is known as a balancing adjustment."

By: Mr Taxman on Feb 21, 2013 10:42AM

"Hi, My company has paid me 74c/km for 5000kms as a taxfree allowance and now that I have gone over 5000kms it is now being put into my taxable income. Is it in my best interest financially to start keeping a log book and claim my next 5000kms from the government? Is that even possible?"

By: Jake on Feb 25, 2013 4:54AM

"Yes the log book method will be the best way for you to minimise your outlay for using your car for work purposes."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 01, 2013 7:44AM

"hi my job decription states that i must have a car or acces to a car to carry out my jop as a maintance engneer in a heath trust . they do supply a van but as this is not allways avlable I have to use my car which i get payed the mileage for . But the trust is now going to start charging for parking can i claim this back as its them that require me to have a car on site "

By: john on Feb 27, 2013 6:06PM

"Parking at work is generally not allowable as a deduction if you park there for more than 4 hours per day. It is treated as a personal expense. Parking is however allowed as a deduction when you travel between two separate places of work"

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 01, 2013 7:53AM

"Hi i am a sales rep and leave from home to go to my first apponitment, i drive around all day and go into the office inbetween appointments i then go home from my last appointment. I dont do any private driving before or after work hours is this considered business km travelled for me for me from the begining to the end of my travel. Thank you Phil"

By: Phil on Feb 28, 2013 10:03AM

"The first & last trips of the day (between hom & the first & last appointments) would be considered personal travel & non-claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 01, 2013 7:54AM

"I have started a second job and I it is at different location everyday can I claim the kilometres from home to the location? Another question also I know I can claim the kilometres between my 2 different jobs but is there a limit as it can be upwards of 150km between job locations as I do work around northern rivers NSW and then travel to my main job which is is 40km South of Brisbane? "

By: Steve on Mar 03, 2013 11:06AM

"You cannot claim your travel to your 2nd job from home. No it doesn't matter how far the travel is between clients other than if you claim the cents per kilometre basis you are limited to 5000km for the year"

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 05, 2013 10:54PM

"I am sole trader.Recently i am travelling to other office site 2 days week. I have done 2500 Buisiness travel km since Jan to mid feb with one vehicle.also i have done some repair work on this vehicle. I sold this vehicle recently and baought new one and doing same buisiness km on this vehicle. Now in my scenario i will definately go beyond 5000km till June2013 if we combine both vehicle km. I am kept logbook for last vehicle. Can i claim 1/3 expence method for repairwork done,Rego for first vehicle and in case of new vehicle expense like rego,insurance,and maintenance etc? "

By: John on Mar 05, 2013 5:21AM

"You need to travel more than 5000 business kms in the new car in order to claim via the 1/3 method. Note that you will also need a new log book for teh new car."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 05, 2013 10:55PM

"I am considering taking a new job. They are offering 45 cents per mile between clients (home health) but I'm wondering... Since I could claim this mileage on my tax return anyway (at a higher rate,) how is it to my advantage to accept this reimbursement as part of their offer? It doesn't seem like it adds anything to my bottom line if I could have claimed this on my tax return anyway?"

By: Lauren on Mar 06, 2013 4:30AM

"Take the cash reimbursement everytime ... it is always better to get your expenses covered 100% rather than only getting a percentage of it back when you lodeg your tax (based on marginal tax rate)."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 08, 2013 9:11PM

"I work for a large company. They recently asked me to work in a different office 2 days a week. I told them I will not do it unless the pay me a travel allowance as it much further from my home. They agreed to this. I was told me I could also claim the difference in kilometers from the old office to the new office if I travel from home..is this correct?"

By: Luke on Mar 06, 2013 6:27PM

"No you can't claim the difference unless you actually go to the old office first each day."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 08, 2013 9:12PM

"I am traveling by public transport (train) to the city due to the cost of driving, parking, tolls and stress. 1st scenario: Some times I am required to drive to customer sites, doing this directly from home. Do I need to deduct the distance City-Home from the distance driven to the customer site? City-Home 45km, Customer site e.g. also 45km but cannot be reached by public transport. 2nd scenario: I am required to collect bulky tools, equipment from the city-office. I would normally use public transport, but need to drive with my car to the office and then to the customer premises with the tools. The trip home-City would be without the bulky tools, the trip office to customer with tools. Can I claim the trip to home to city , too, as I would not bring my car normally. "

By: Claus on Mar 06, 2013 10:48PM

"No you don't deduct the city component of trip home the trip is between home & client direct. Normally that trip woul dbe non-deductible as it is the first leg of the day. However yes you can claim travel where you have bulky items. "

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 08, 2013 9:09PM

"I receive a monthly car allowance (its not taxed) and i also have a company gas card. My car allowance was not included on my W-2. Do i still claim it on my tax return/how? My accountant said its a wash so we shouldnt claim it. "

By: Cherice on Mar 07, 2013 4:15PM

"Don't know anything about the K tax system as we are here in Australia Cherice. Thanks for popping by & saying g'day!"

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 08, 2013 9:06PM

"Hi, I'm working as a tutor at student's home for a small business. I get some money per student for traveling expense. I would like to know if I can claim my travel expenses ? I'm writing down every trip I do! Thank you"

By: claire on Mar 08, 2013 12:10AM

"Of course you can claim travel - just not the first & last trips of the day."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 08, 2013 9:07PM

"Hi there. We currently have two cars and both are registered in my husbands name. His ute is purely for work, he has abn and a small business, the other car is for the family and regular driving. He can claim his car as a business car as its 100% business but if we change the registration on family car to me, can he still claim his ute 100% or not? In short, do both cars need to be registered in his name to claim one fully for business? Hope I make sense! Thanks in advance!"

By: Rebecca on Mar 11, 2013 10:58PM

"Cars do not need to be registered in your own name to claim a deduction for them in your tax return. You merely need to justify that you incur the expenses related to the running of the vehicle/s & that you use them for work/business-related purposes. "

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 13, 2013 7:42PM

"How can I justify the I am using my husband's car ( car is on my husband's name) to commute to work daily. Any documents which I need to produce along with the petrol bills? ( I live in Bangalore, India). "

By: A on Sep 10, 2013 6:14AM

"Hi- I was working for a national company in sydney, and moved back home to Melbourne, I have taken up employment in their Melbourne office. For 2 days every fortnight I still travel back to the Sydney office at my own expense to deal with projects I was managing there. Can I claim a deduction for these trips to Sydney?"

By: Josh on Mar 12, 2013 4:16AM

"Sounds like a genuine deduction to me. "

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 13, 2013 7:40PM

"Hello, i do all the IT work, hardware and software for our business which owns hotels/pubs across south australia, i am required to go to hotels at any time to fix hardware related issues, because of this i have to carry my laptop, tool kit and computer spares in my car at all times, am i eligible to claim my travel from home to work? Is this considered bulky tools? Thanks heaps in advance"

By: Ben on Mar 12, 2013 10:47AM

"the ATO considers about 20kg constitutes "bulky" for the definition."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 13, 2013 7:39PM

"Twice a week I need to post mail for my work at the post office using my personal car. The nearest post office is 12km's away. The post office is also in the direction of my house (although with a slight detour). Can I claim this as a work related travel expense? If I don't claim it, I am adding an extra 12 kms to my usual trip home by doing this trip."

By: sam on Mar 14, 2013 12:53AM

"The ATO probably wouldn't allow the trip to the post office as it is on your way home but I would argue that you could probably be entitled to the differential travel due to the slight detour that you mentioned - so if the overall trip is an extra 3kms then only claim that."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 24, 2013 10:21PM

"I have just started a handyman business where I carry tools in my ute to each job. I understand I am able to charge my fuel as a business expense from home and between jobs but I also use my ute for personal reasons. I think it's about 90% business and 10% personal. So to work out what the business pays and what I pay for fuel do you think it reasonable to just pay for the fuel 1 out of 10 times from my personal money? Or how am I best to account for it?"

By: David on Mar 20, 2013 3:16AM

"Simply have a log book showing your 90% business use. You can pay all out of the business but when it comes time to submitting your tax, make sure that you only claim 90% of the ute's running costs."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 24, 2013 10:23PM

"Hi, I work in a network operations centre on 12 hour rotating shift and part of our job requires that we be on standby to go to the disaster recovery site 40 minutes from place of business if the main centre fails. I know we can claim the trip to the DR site and back but the question is due to our requirement to bring our car to work specifically to be on standby to go to the DR site is there any way to claim the trip to and from work. Itinerant is the closest I have come to. thanks "

By: Mike Baker on Mar 21, 2013 9:55PM

"Unfortunately not Mike."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 24, 2013 10:24PM

"Hi, sometimes my job requires me to visit a project site at night (say 10pm for 2 hours) after coming home (6pm) from the office. Is the trip between home and site a tax deductible expense?"

By: Chris on Mar 23, 2013 10:45PM

"I believe that you could probably claim this travel."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 24, 2013 10:28PM

"Hi, I am a Sole Trader / CAD Drafter My current client requires me to work from their premises 5 business days per week however I conduct the administrative side of my business from my home office and also undertake additional clients projects from home also. I also do work for the same client after hours in my home office. There are times that I also have to attend site meetings and have recently made several trips to a computer supplier to upgrade my home office computer. Am I able to claim the Km's from work to the computer supplier and back to work? also am I able to claim Km's from my home to my clients office and back considering that my home office is the base of my operations? even though currently I am performing more work at my clients office than in my home office. Thanks in anticipation Regards Steve"

By: Steve on Mar 26, 2013 5:11AM

"If you are travelling FOR work rather than TO work (a very subtle difference here) then you should be able to claim your car travel. If you actively do work/business at home & have other clientele as well, then should be no problems with your travel."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 31, 2013 10:09PM

"I am sole trader and am thinking of getting a dual cab as an additional vehicle as things are getting busy, my wife also works in the business, do I need to keep a log book or is it 100% t/deductible-sorry if this has been asked before...."

By: Brian on Mar 26, 2013 10:08PM

"I don't know everything about cars but expect that there is a potential personal component when you have a dual cab ... suggest you keep a logbook for 12 weeks."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 31, 2013 10:06PM

"....oops forgot to mention I am a builder..."

By: Brian on Mar 26, 2013 10:10PM

"I am a Graphic Designer (Sole Trader) working mostly in the signage field, working from home but also having to use my own car for business related trips to factories, clients and network meetings from time to time. I note that some tax rules have changed recently for accelerated deductions for motor vehicles where you can claim an instant $5000 plus an additional 15% for the first year. This option makes me consider if I was to purchase a new (used) vehicle for around that value for the sole purpose of business use, would I still need to fill out a log book? This would effectively be my second car, so would be for business use only, and leaving me to use my own car for personal use."

By: Scott on Apr 06, 2013 1:52AM

"Yes you would need to do a log book, as any deduction under the new depreciation rules for small business entities needs to be reduced for any private usage."

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 10, 2013 9:23PM

"Even if this second vehicle would be used soley for business? I got the impression a log book would not be required if I already have a car for personal use. "

By: Scott on Apr 11, 2013 6:01AM

"Doesn't matter if you have a second car. Log book will demonstrate that whether it is truly used 100% for business purposes."

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 11, 2013 10:45PM

"HI, I do two jobs. every weekend i finish one job at 9:30pm and go straight to my other job which starts at midnight (after 2:30hrs from another job). i don't go home but rather i arrive early to my other job but i dont start it till midnight. Can i claim the travel expense? Thanks"

By: Kalpesh on Apr 12, 2013 10:22AM

"Yes travel between jobs is claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 13, 2013 5:02AM

"Hi, I've just started a new job (my first job in Australia) that requires me to travel to various addresses inspecting properties. However it is only casual/pt work and it is unlikely that I will earn enough each fortnight to pay tax. I am driving between 50 to 100km each day that I work which when added up will cost me alot in petrol. Will I be able to claim anything back if I'm not actually earning enough to pay tax? I don't really want to give up my job but will have to if it's going to end up costing me to work."

By: Rachel on Apr 14, 2013 8:42AM

"If you are under the tax thresholds then really no need to claim any deductions as you quite rightly suggest there are no tax benefits ... BUT ... there might be other government benefits based on how low your income might be. Just in case your income unexpectedly rises to a level that you have to pay tax, I would keep a track of your car travel. "

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 17, 2013 7:56AM

"Hi, I am a swimming coach and taking over the lease of a pool (starting in August). I was wondering what I can claim in car expenses as I will be travelling to and from the pool 2- 3 times a day as well as to various carnivals. (Just wonder if it is worth while buying/leasing a new car). Thanks."

By: Leonie on Apr 15, 2013 8:50AM

"Trips from home to the pool (and vice ersa) won't be claimable unless you are carting around buly equipment (more than 20kgs) that you can't store at the pool. Travel between the pool & other pools (eg carnivals) would be claimable. All cars cost money - even after tax - so go as cheap as possible, even if it means staying with your old car."

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 17, 2013 7:47AM

"I work as a design contractor through a creative recruitment agency. Currently I work at an office in the city on a temporary contract basis - can I claim public transport costs as my normal workplace would be my home? "

By: Tandi on Apr 18, 2013 3:20AM

"I don't believe that you be eligible to claim those costs>"

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 21, 2013 10:16PM

"I work as a machine technician and receive a car allowance as part of my salary. For the last 4 years I worked for a business with no office in the state. Most days I would travel to a freight company to collect parts before going to various sites. I had been advised that the travel to the freight company was deductable. I have changed employer and the new employer has an office and I collect the parts from there. Is this travel deductible?"

By: Greg Anastasi on Apr 18, 2013 8:14AM

"It depends on where your place of work is. Is home your base each day? Or is the office your base? If the latter then you are travelling FOR work not travelling TO work."

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 21, 2013 10:33PM

"I understand I can claim travel expenses from my first job to my second job as a waitress. I have worked out the exact amount of kilometres from one work place to the other and I work approximately 3 shifts per week at the second job. Am I required to keep a log book of the km's, odometer readings, etc? Can you confirm how i actually provide this information to the ATO? thanks"

By: Emily on Apr 19, 2013 6:39AM

"If you are claiming work-related motor vehicles expenses under the cents per kilometre method then you don't need to keep a log book but have a reasonable basis to the number of kilometres that you are claiming under this method. This means working out how many trips that you have done for the year for each route & have the actual kms distance between the two points. Unless audited, you do not need to provide any calculations to the ATO."

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 21, 2013 10:19PM

"Hi. I was wondering if I can claim travel when I work away from home. DIDO, 5 days a week I work in country Victoria, and I drive back to Melbourne on weekends. Probably do approximately 500km each weekend."

By: Lyn on Apr 20, 2013 7:07AM

"Unfortunately not. THe ATO have issued prviate rulings in the past in relation to FIFO arrangements where the personal expenses of travelling to remote areas for work are not claimable by the employee. "

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 21, 2013 10:30PM

"I have a ute, that i use to travel from work to home each day, can i calim this ute on tax?"

By: Jack on Apr 23, 2013 12:47AM

"Do you use the ute to take to & from home bulky tools that you cannot lock up each night? If not then you can't claim travel between home & work."

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 23, 2013 9:19PM

"I am a sales manager in a housing transportable company. The company provided me with a car but i have to pay all my own fuel. I am office based but regularly have to travel to different sites and clients from the office. am i entitled to claim back on fuel for these visits? I have kept all my fuel receipts. \regards"

By: John Keenan on Apr 26, 2013 12:28AM

"Provided you maintain a logbook then you can claim a percentage of your fuel costs. It might be better if you notify your employer about the spending yuo do much year though & reduce the FBT amount of your package based on employee's contribution."

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 27, 2013 9:54PM

"Hello, I'm a support worker in the community and have well and truly travelled more than 5000 kms betwen jobs. Can i also claim depreciation on my car which im still paying off a loan for purchased brand new in 2011 in March. Can i claim all fuel used, tyres, repairs, services etc? I also have an abn and have a contract with a client, which i take on outings in my car for lunch sonetimes, can i claim my meal expense?"

By: Donna on Apr 29, 2013 9:17PM

"If you keep a logbook for a minimum of 12 weeks and keep all receipts for the run then you can claim the % of your running costs as a deduction, including depreciation. The lunch would be considered entertainment & not claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on May 03, 2013 2:48PM

"My husband is a tradsman on PAYG - not self employed. He wants to buy a work cer/van. Can he claim this expense and if so how much. Would he be better buying the car outright or getting a loan ?"

By: theresa on Apr 29, 2013 11:25PM

"Tell him to keep a logbook of his travel & he can claim a percentage of his running costs accordingly. I prefer to buy rather than purchase as the interest on a car loan is pretty high - around 10% - and you only get a portion of that back on tax (due to marginal tax rate & non-work related percentage)"

By: Mr Taxman on May 03, 2013 2:46PM

"I am a member of the RAAF who lives on base. I use my personal vehicle to travel to and from work every day, and also use it to travel on defence business off base. I do not receive reimbursements. Am I able to claim on fuel, tyres, servicing costs etc? also how do I work out vehicle depreciation costs?"

By: Jamie on May 01, 2013 11:16PM

"If you keep a logbook for a minimum of 12 weeks then you can claim a % of your car running costs, including depreciation. Depreciation is 25% of the written down value of the car at the start of the year (or the original cost if the first year of depreciation)."

By: Mr Taxman on May 03, 2013 2:44PM

"Hi Taxman, Firstly great work! Few questions :) My employer is removing my FMCV and replacing it with a 15k car allowance and fuel card. I fully own a car already (no debt) and will now use this to perform my work. So I can claim, insurance/, maintenance?, tyres?, modifications?, rego? etc... secondly, if the recorded expenses fall short of the allowance paid in the FY I pay tax on the variation? Or lastly, Is the car allowance component of pay taxed (withheld) on payment (mthly) or the tax payable is determined at the end of the FY based on a shortfall of deductions? Cheers, mate. Keep up your good work."

By: Mil on May 09, 2013 2:53PM

"Thanks for the kind words Mil. Your employer should be deducting tax from your car allowance so you don't have to worry about any tax shortfalls (and in fact you should lodge your return ASAP to get some nice refunds!) however you can request the ATO for a PAYG Withholding Variation based on your estimated work-related motor vehicle claim. Should your actual claim when you do your tax return at year end be less than the estimated claim in the variation then you will have a shortfall of tax which hopefully isn't too high (hint be conservative with your PAYG Withholding Variation claim!)"

By: Mr Taxman on May 09, 2013 11:48PM

"Just to note: On the deduction (expenses) claim per item, I will discount the personal use %..."

By: Mil on May 09, 2013 3:00PM

"Correct"

By: Mr Taxman on May 09, 2013 11:42PM

"Hi, I've currently started a logbook my question to you is should I also be putting my personal use in? And also I know I can claim between shifts but what do I do if I have an hour before my next shift and I go to a shopping centre or something before I continue onto my next shift? I fall under an Itinerant worker. This would be very helpful thank you"

By: Nikkita-Lee on May 16, 2013 11:07AM

"No you don't need to enter private trips in your log book as you are showing the odometer readings at the start & end of your 12 week period & effectively only need the business kms to work out your percentage of total travel that is work-related. Travel between jobs that is personal should not be claimed."

By: Mr Taxman on May 18, 2013 6:37AM

"Hi Taxman, I am an exploration geologist who travel and camp on several different exploration site. Our company does not have camp facilities such as accommodation and therefore I am using my motorhome as accommodation and for transporting food and several equipments from the main office to the exploration site. Would I be allowed to claim car-travel expanses?. Kindest regards Paul "

By: paul on May 18, 2013 2:37AM

"Sounds like you might be able to claim but might be an idea to contact the ATO for confirmation based on your particular situation."

By: Mr Taxman on May 18, 2013 6:33AM

"Can i use a family members ABN to get the $1000 dollars off the purchase of a new car?"

By: Richi on May 22, 2013 10:24AM

"Of course not"

By: Mr Taxman on May 30, 2013 11:35AM

"I've always claimed travelling between two jobs as I have had 2 jobs for a while, but I just realised my wife has an abn and works from home as well as has a day job. Can she claim travelli?g to and/or from work?"

By: Stewart on May 23, 2013 2:37AM

"Depends if she is genuinely doing travel for work rather than travel to work. Subtle difference. Does she work work on the business prior to job & does she do business work immediately after the job as well?"

By: Mr Taxman on May 30, 2013 11:37AM

"Quick question which you may be able to help with - I am considering taking on some cleaning work. That would mean a couple of nights per week I would travel directly from my place of employment to where I need to do the cleaning. So, in the morning I would travel from home to the train station by car then to my normal place of work by train. In the evening I would travel by train back to the staion, jump in the car and then drive to the place that needs to be cleaned and from there drive home. Would I be able to claim the train travel from work to the railway station and then kilometres from the station to the cleaning job, and then kilometres to home?, and if not what parts could I claim.?"

By: Craig on May 29, 2013 5:56AM

"Yes you can Craig. "

By: Mr Taxman on May 30, 2013 11:38AM

"Hi there I started my cleaning company in Feb 2013, it is a registered partnership I and sub contracting and doing my own work I am using my nefews car and paying his payment to st gheorge from my bank account I travel all over brisbane and Gold Coast, I havnt hit the gst mark yet but i am looking at getting a wiork van am I better to hire, lease or HP need to know best option for someone who is running at close to a loss, also can i get tax for the car im paying now untill i get a new one and how much back do i get for a work vehicle every bit of info will be greatly appreciated??? "

By: Pou on May 31, 2013 3:55AM

"You can claim car expenses on a car that is not yours if you can demonstrate that you use it for work/business purposes & make the relevant payments. Choose the cheapest form of finance - ask them for the implied interest rate. You want your expenses as low as possible."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 12, 2013 12:35PM

"Hi there. I am an employed lawyer working in an office in Sydney but travel to Canberra from my office (picking up files, etc) and returning that day or the next to that office (to drop off files) at least twice a month to see clients and potential clients. I also occasionally (about once a month) visit clients and potential clients in the suburbs after or during work hours usually again travelling from my office to get there. Finally, occasionally (once a month or so) I drive to the airport and park there in order to fly interstate to meet clients. If I keep a log of all these travels, can I claim this activity as a work related car expense?"

By: Chris on Jun 01, 2013 3:29AM

"Yes "

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 12, 2013 12:33PM

"Thanks very much for that. Greatly appreciated."

By: Chris Kerin on Jun 17, 2013 6:42AM

"Hello Mr Taxman, wondering if you could shed some light on this situation please. My company sent me to work on site, they have supplied me with a hire car, however, I am not insured to use it for any other purpose than that of driving to my temporary place of work and back home. I have been working on site for 18months, so less than 24months; which until then would then make it qualify as temporary place of work right? I very rarely have to go into my permant place of work, unless required for training, which is once in a blue moon. When I first started work on site the company would allow me to claim petrol expenses per km. However, 6months ago they turned round and said that I was unable to claim petrol expenses anymore and that I shouldn't have been doing so in the first place (they admitted it was their own fault) due to tax reasons. Now this has confused my greatly. I believed that you could claim expenses (petrol) to and from your temporary place of work, am I correct? Or is this company discretion? It has significantly altered my journey. Further more, when challenged on this issue they seem to slightly retract this reasoning and transfer it to another; that due to the cost of petrol to and from the temporary place of work being less than the train fare I would have to pay if I were still based in the office (permernant place of work) that I am not eligible to claim petrol expenses, as I am "better off". Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Best Regards"

By: Stephanie on Jun 02, 2013 2:48AM

"I don't believe the trips from home to your workplace is claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 12, 2013 12:32PM

"Hi There, Just a quick question. If my regular place of work is at an office in Mt Gravatt but i quiet often have to go in to head office for the day for meetings. My question is: When i go to Head office from home for the day, can i claim the kms from home to head office and home or how does it work? Thank you very much :)"

By: Dani on Jun 04, 2013 11:17PM

"The first & last trips of the day are not claimable - but all other travel in between would be claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 12, 2013 12:30PM

"Hi Mr Taxman, I get paid a car allowance. I am thinking about leasing a car instead of buying. I do about 2000km per year and 80% is for work. Two related questions: 1. If I lease a car myself and salary sacrifice some of the lease payment can I also claim the work use of private car deduction? 2. If my employer agrees to a novated lease lease on the car can I claim the work use of private car deduction? Thanks for your helpful website."

By: Jenny Graham on Jun 05, 2013 12:19PM

"1. No - you treat as a contribution to running costs of car to reduce any FBT on th eprovision of a company vehicle 2. No -see 1."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 12, 2013 12:27PM

"I am permanent sales rep employee with a Car Allowance (seen as part salary) up to me to deduct what I can from the usage. I can work from home or on the road, I am given phone, laptop and mobile internet access. The vehicle I use is solely for work. The other car we have is my wife's and she uses it for pleasure only as do I on the weekends. Question is : Is there a form I can fill out asking for 100% deductions of all expenses on the work vehicle."

By: Douglas on Jun 11, 2013 12:23PM

"You simply claim the expenses in your tax return. If you are referring to not having tax taken out of car allowance then you can fill out an Application for Variation of PAYG Withholding Tax. Here is the 2013/14 form http://www.ato.gov.au/individuals/content.aspx?doc=/content/00188348.htm PS Hope you still have a log book showing your 100% work usage."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 12, 2013 12:22PM

"My job requires to work on company's client site everyday for the last 10 months. I travelled by my private car from home to client's workplace about 3670 km. Can I claim deduction for car expense? Thank you."

By: thomas tran on Jun 12, 2013 4:53AM

"Unfortunately not."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 12, 2013 12:19PM

"Hi, Just wondering I'm working as an intern this year rotating between hospitals. 4 of my rotations are at metro hospitals which I travel directly to from home, these I assume are counted as private travel. However for one rotation I have been posted to a regional town where I am provided accommodation as its to far to commute from home. Am I allowed to claim the travel to and from this town as business travel? Thanks so much for your help."

By: Michael on Jun 13, 2013 12:45PM

"If it is a regular event then probably not. How far away is it?"

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 20, 2013 7:44AM

"I get posted for 10 weeks to work in a GP practice 300km from home. They provide me accom for that time while in away. "

By: Michael on Jun 21, 2013 2:32AM

"Also not sure if it changes anything but all my pay etc is still done through the my employer back in Melbourne. Thanks for your assistance."

By: Michael on Jun 21, 2013 2:37AM

"So if you are based there for the ten weeks then probably could claim that travel."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 25, 2013 2:14PM

"Hi Mr Taxman, First of all I would like to greatly thank you for all the valuable information you provide to people like myself. This time I'd like to ask you probably quite a simple question. Is there a proper formal logbook that I need to fill in all my records or the logbook is just a diary records with all the required information? Thank you again!"

By: Uri on Jun 15, 2013 3:28PM

"There is a particular format that the logbook must be in Uri. The simplest thing is to buy one at the newsagency in the prescribed format for a few dollars & claim that back on tax too! I am aware of a company in the process of getting approval from the ATO in having an iPhone application that will do the job including calculating the kms between trips & syncing to your outlook calendar. It is about 6-12 months away."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 20, 2013 7:42AM

"Hi, just had a question in regards to business travel. I have a full time job mon-fri that requires me to drive my ute to work with my bulky tools, I get just over 5000km from my travelling on my ute, my question is, that I also have a small partnership business on the weekend that requires I drive the ute, can I claim km for this business on the ute as well. Many thanks."

By: Nicholas on Jun 16, 2013 12:03PM

"Maximum claim under cent per kilometre method is 5000km per car. Suggest you keep a log book."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 20, 2013 7:39AM

"Hi Mr Taxman, I work full time as a Territory Sales Manager. I receive a car allowance and petrol card . I keep my samples in a freezer at home that I use to take to my customers and carry these in an esky in my car. My job requires me to call on end users in different locations throughout the day . I have been told I can't claim for travel from home to my first call but can claim the other calls during the day , but can I claim for the mileage from my last call to home ? I keep a log book and do between 30 to 40,000kms a year in travel. Thanks ."

By: Wendy on Jun 17, 2013 9:25AM

"The first & last trips of the day are not claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 20, 2013 7:37AM

"Hi I've currently started a new job where I am completing a degree through a local university, the study is funded by me. Some of the lectures also take place at my place of work. Can I claim travel to these lectures as self education expenses? Thanks"

By: Adam on Jun 20, 2013 1:32AM

"If your study is directly related to your work then you can claim your travel between work & study."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 20, 2013 7:37AM

"Hi Mr. Taxman. I work at a university and often head out to pick up supplies on my way home from work, or during the day. I receive no allowance. What can I claim. Also, I use my car on campus to make deliveries and to get to meetings (on the other side of campus) when it is raining. Can I claim these expenses? Thanks Mr Taxman!"

By: Tony on Jun 21, 2013 2:06AM

"Suggest you keep a log book of your work-related travel & keep all your receipts for travel."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 25, 2013 2:12PM

"Hi Mr. TaxMan, I have been in a Sales job for the past 9 months permanent. I get a 5k car allowance included in my 60k salary. I moved house and cant find my receipt box for the past 6 years. I know.. I'm hopeless. I travel to Clients and Sales call over the week quite a lot, but I cant really prove this now as the odd receipt here and there will not be worth it. I am a Permanent resident since December 2012. (7 months). Since I moved from Ireland I did basic returns from my casual employment on-line. So.. What CAN I claim in this years Tax return? What should I do from here on in..? Other than from July 2013.. start to save all my receipts, and hope to get a decent return next year. Any straight forward advice is welcome. "

By: Seán Patrick McMullen on Jun 24, 2013 4:51AM

"I suggest you turn the house over again for that box of receipts. Failing that, can you re-construct your receipts if you paid via debit or credit card perhaps by going through copies of statements? If paid by cash then you are pretty much stuffed. Other than that, your next option is to claim the cents per kilometre method which is a maximum of $3750 for 5000km."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 25, 2013 2:11PM

"Hi, I'm a self employed carpenter, earlier in the year I bought a new vehicle. As this is for my work how does it affect my tax? Does the price i paid for the ute come off my taxable income? Or a percentage? Cheers."

By: Scott on Jun 25, 2013 9:26AM

"You cannot claim the cost of the ute against your income but a percentage of it which is called depreciation. The rate is 25% pro-rated over the year (so if you bought it on 1 January then the rate is half of 25%) and you need to reduce further for private usage (so keep a log book for 12 weeks). You could also claim other running costs (petrol, rego, repairs, etc) as well as interest on any financing."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 25, 2013 2:07PM

"hi, I'm a contractor for a promotional company going from home to a club are these K's tax deductible ??"

By: Heather on Jun 25, 2013 10:54PM

"Unfortunately trips between home & work are not claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 26, 2013 1:59AM

"Hi, I was working as a sole trader and claiming 80% of vehicle use for work purposes and have been paying monthly repayments out of my personal account and claiming usual deductions on fuel/depreciation etc. Now I have set up a company, can I tranfer the remaining monthly repayments (chattel mortgage) out of the company's account- if so what happens to the 20% personal use part of taxation? Thanks"

By: Daniel on Jun 26, 2013 1:42AM

"I would consider simply paying a car allowance to you from the company & keep claiming this car the same way. You will need to do a new log book but it avoids any potential FBT implications for having a car provided by the company & the car allowance is a deduction in the company."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 26, 2013 2:01AM

"hello i have a van and i carry a lot of tools which i need when im out in the field when im planting or harvesting in case of breakdown and they asr safer left in the van i also drive round the potato fields 2 times a week to keep an eye on them but i only travel to 1 place of work from home "

By: andrew stevens on Jun 26, 2013 7:16PM

"If you are carrying bulky tools then you can claim this travel,"

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 27, 2013 10:57AM

"from above im self employed and some times i travel 220 miles to do some other work can i claim motor expensives for that 2 many thanks"

By: andrew stevens on Jun 26, 2013 7:25PM

"Shouldn't be an ssue if you are transporting bulky tools/equipment. PS I note you mentioned "miles" which isn't a normal Australian terminology so if you are from another part of the world then you will need to chat with a tax expert over there!"

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 27, 2013 11:00AM

"are there separate rates for claiming work related car expenses for eg; km rate then also a rate for carrying bulky tools? or does it fall under the one expense? "

By: andrew on Jun 28, 2013 8:22PM

"Not separate."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 04, 2013 11:39PM

"i work as a security guard. I have a regular position (4 days/fortnight) and then I work the remaining shifts at various events taking place around the sydney/wollongong area. Can i claim petrol or car maintenance in my tax return?"

By: matt on Jun 28, 2013 11:53PM

"If you are travelling between jobs or during the one job then you can claim your car travel but trips between home & work are not claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 04, 2013 11:40PM

"Hi Mr T!! 1) Im employed by a Uni facilitating student nurses. However, I do not actually work on campus, but at the various establishments with the students on their placements (for 2-4 weeks). Before placement I get emails of the placement details and print the details and do a bit of paperwork at home 2) I also work casually for a local hospital. 3) I also contract medical services providing first aid etc. have my own ABN too. What travel expenses can I claim? What other deductions ie phone?"

By: Julie on Jun 29, 2013 9:43AM

"Suggest you buy my book 101 Ways to Save Money on Your Tax - Legally! to get the other tax deductions. With respect to your car travel, I would expect that the ATO would not allow the first & last trips of the day (ie between work & home) but you could claim all other travel. "

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 04, 2013 11:44PM

"I do my husband's tax return. For the last few years he has driven to work and has been paid a fuel allowance. On his group certificate, it is itemised separately however is added all together as income, even though no tax has been paid on it. I then put it under deductions, as a work related travel expense. I say that it has been fully expended. This is also what I do with his meal allowance. Is this right? "

By: Carol on Jun 29, 2013 11:22AM

"That is correct with the meal allowance but you need to actually justify his claim for work-related car expenses. If he is merely paid the allowance but doesn't use his car then he shouldn't make a claim."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 04, 2013 11:48PM

"I moved from Melbourne to Brisbane for a new job opportunity. Can I claim the travel (petrol & oil) and accommodation expenses as deductions. Also, so if we travel from home to work (normal travel) we can claim depreciation on the car but we can't claim the direct car expenses? Is that correct?"

By: Natasha on Jul 01, 2013 11:12AM

"You cannot claim travel related to moving to a new job nor can you claim the depreciation of your car if you are merely going between home & work."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 04, 2013 11:50PM

"Thanks Mr T, I'm a little confused by the second questions though due to the question below posted By: Kevin on Apr 09, 2012 1:05PM "Hi, for my work I am travelling >5k kms per year in my private car that I have a loan on. Can I claim depreciation cost of the car, interest paid on the load based on the percentage of travel I do for work??" By: Kevin on Apr 09, 2012 1:05PM Reply "Kevin - yes you can claim the work-related portion of the depreciation and loan interest along with your other running costs (such as petrol, rego, insurance, repairs, servicing, CTP). Make sure you do your log book for at least 12 weeks!""

By: Natasha on Jul 06, 2013 8:30AM

"Thanks Mr T, I'm a little confused by the second questions though due to the question below posted By: Kevin on Apr 09, 2012 1:05PM "Hi, for my work I am travelling >5k kms per year in my private car that I have a loan on. Can I claim depreciation cost of the car, interest paid on the load based on the percentage of travel I do for work??" By: Kevin on Apr 09, 2012 1:05PM Reply "Kevin - yes you can claim the work-related portion of the depreciation and loan interest along with your other running costs (such as petrol, rego, insurance, repairs, servicing, CTP). Make sure you do your log book for at least 12 weeks!""

By: Natasha on Jul 06, 2013 8:30AM

"I currently have one part time job and one casual job.. Someone has just told me I can claim traveling expenses for my car traveling to and from work for my second job. Is this correct? Thanks"

By: Chantelle on Jul 02, 2013 11:38PM

"Yes it is correct Chantelle"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 06, 2013 7:57AM

"I get a $5000 car allowance, can I still claim kms, my car insurance or new tyres, service etc?"

By: Jules on Jul 03, 2013 2:10AM

"You need to show the $5000 as income but can claim the work-related car expenses as either cents per kilometre (up to 5000km) or the log book method of your running costs (including petrol, insurance, tyres, etc)"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 04, 2013 11:36PM

"Hi. I claim KM reimbursement from the company each time I travelled for working purposes and the total amount claimed is shown on Payment Summary separately as “Allowance – kilometres”. They were paid tax free, which I believe I will need to pay tax in the tax return. Can I still claim car expense in tax return using the 5000 kilometre method? Thanks."

By: Peter on Jul 03, 2013 4:56AM

"Yes you can show the deduction as you need to include the income in your return."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 04, 2013 11:37PM

"Hi. I am currently looking a purchasing a new vehicle as a better option for tax given that I am a sales rep in receipt of a annual car allowance of approx 14K . I have been advised the following Based on a 14 k car allowance , if I were to spend say $35000 on a car (either brand new or second hand) then in the first year claims would be as follows (example only) Depreciation $35000 x 18.75% =$ 6562 Loan Interest (take loan over say 5 years = $1800 Fuel 52 weeks @ $80 = 4160 Repairs/servicing $600 Insurance $1000 Rego and CTP $1000 Total $15122 Less say 10% private -$1512 Leaves a tax deductible claim of $13610 which would increase your tax refund by $13610 x 34% = $4627 Probably a silly question but would I be entitled to the $13610 or only the $4627. Sorry so incredibly confused."

By: Jan on Jul 03, 2013 10:44AM

"Tax benefit is the lower figure but remember that you have tax to pay on the car allowance on the other side."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 06, 2013 8:02AM

"Hi, I currently live in QLD but the company i work for is based in WA. 4 months ago I had to relocate to WA (for 5 months altogether, my home base is still QLD) to do study for work. can i claim fuel and accommodation expenses for the trip to WA, and for the trip home? are there any other expenses i can claim for my time spent in WA?"

By: bryce on Jul 03, 2013 10:46AM

"You won't be able to claim the travel to/from WA/WLD but you might have been eligible for a tax free living away from home allowance LAFHA - ask your payroll department"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 06, 2013 9:17AM

"Hi TM I work in retail and need to travel to my bosses house/office to collect faxes, messages and then to work. At end of day I need to drop the days takings back to my bosses house/office. Can I claim the travel from my bosses to work and back daily its only 14ks a day and does not include home to bosses house and bosses house to home. Many Thanks Mark"

By: Mark on Jul 04, 2013 2:06AM

"If your bosses place is on your way to work then the ATO probably won't allow ... but they probably would allow if it is out of your way."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 06, 2013 9:19AM

"Hi, I was doing some casual work driving an advertising car last year. I didn't own the car but I payed for petrol. I invoiced the hours driven + what i had paid for petrol. Do I put the petrol down as an expense when I do my tax? Or do I take it off what my income was? Thanks "

By: David on Jul 04, 2013 2:51AM

"If you did a log book then claim work-related percentage of petrol costs. Otherwise you can only claim as cents per kilometre method."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 06, 2013 9:23AM

"Hi, I have a question for two different jobs. I earned $11,958 wage and $5787 in cents per kilometre car allowance for one job and for the other I earned $41118 wage plus $11115 in car allowance. I only spent $7501 in car expenses (fuel,rego,insurance,etag, servicing) but on top of that, I did on average,(using 12 week logbook) 30,296km for the year, of which 93.5% was for work. How much tax should I have paid? I have paid in total $10811. Will I end up getting any back? Thanks"

By: michelle on Jul 04, 2013 10:04AM

"Suggest you use the ATO's simple tax calculator to work out the tax paid. http://calculators.ato.gov.au/scripts/asp/simpletaxcalc/main.asp or engage a tax agent to do your tax return."

By: Nr Taxman on Jul 06, 2013 9:26AM

"Hi, I work as a audit contractor who travels between clients and the principle place of business on a daily basis. Am I considered an Itinerant worker and thus able to claim car expense travel from home? This would lift my business travel percentage from 40% to %70 to claim against my entire car expense costs. Thanks"

By: David on Jul 04, 2013 10:15AM

"I don't think you would David."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 06, 2013 9:28AM

"Hi, i work in the financial markets and work in the office and at home on 24hr call. Once a month i drive into work on weekends with a box of files...would this count as bulky items for a tax deductions. Also i do a lot of entertaining which i get a taxi allowance but doesnt cover the travel...can i claim the difference. thanks."

By: troy on Jul 05, 2013 1:57AM

"Depends on the size of the box. As a rule of thumb it will need to be at least 20kg. You can show difference between allowance & actual spend provided you kept receipts & trips are not between work & home."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 06, 2013 9:31AM

"Hi I am a solde trader - I have a hairdressing business - can I claim car expenses for the travel done from my home to my salon? Thanks for your help"

By: Jenny on Jul 05, 2013 2:22AM

"Unfortunately not Jenny."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 06, 2013 9:36AM

"I am a sales rep that travels to work by train, and also uses my weekly ticket to get me to work meetings in the city and back to work during the day. Can I claim a proportion of my weekly ticket as I am using it as well for work trips?"

By: Alison on Jul 05, 2013 11:09AM

"Yes you could - suggest you actually diarise all those trips & document the amount the trip would have cost - remember to take the off-peak fares if travel done during the day."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 06, 2013 9:38AM

"Hi Mr T, I work as a Park Ranger on an island. The only way for me to get to my workplace is to drive my own car with food, etc for my 9 day shift. My employer pays the 1hr that it takes to get from the sign on point to where I work. Is the 30kms between these two places claimable do you reckon? Thanks, Nick "

By: Nick on Jul 07, 2013 8:16AM

"Travel between home & work is not claimable regardless of the unique situation (unless you carry bulky equipment)."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 09, 2013 2:04PM

"Hi. I work in community services through an agency. I am given a call and a place to go and I need to carry all of my equipment such as client resources I use when working with children, youth or adults. I generally do 24 hour shifts sometimes more with sleep overs. I do not have a particular base of employment so my home is my base. I have kept a log book and wondering if I am able to claim all of my work related miles which can vary?"

By: Joy on Jul 08, 2013 1:09AM

"Should be fine to claim that travel in Australia (I noticed you refer to "miles" so not sure if you are Australian!)"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 09, 2013 2:06PM

"Hi Tax Man, Just wondering if I can claim car kms from home to my workplace. I work from home 90% of the time and travel to our office to teach classes and for some meetings etc. Is there a special classification required for work from home employees or anything?"

By: Jason on Jul 08, 2013 5:45AM

"You should be able to claim as you are travelling FOR work not travelling TO work."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 09, 2013 2:07PM

"Thanks - I might make a second logbook removing those trips just in case my accountant says I can't claim those km."

By: Jason on Jul 10, 2013 10:12PM

"I work as a paint sprayer on a contract. I have to take my spray equipment to work on a monday but I need to have them available at the weekends for other work. can I claim milage on a Monday anf Frioday for transporting my equipment."

By: alan on Jul 08, 2013 6:52AM

"Sounds like the work on weekends is not related to employer ... if so then I wouldn't be claiming."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 09, 2013 2:09PM

"I work as a mechanic and drive in my car to and from work (128kms) round trip 7 days per fortnight. I carry bulky tools and don't have a secure place at work to leave them. Am I able to claim the travel to and from work. I also regularly work the weekends ( overtime) at different locations to my regular work site and use my own vehicle to carry the tools required to perform my work. Am I able to claim the overtime travel. My Ute is also under finance. Thank you in advance for your advice. "

By: Andrew on Jul 08, 2013 10:56AM

"Should be able to claim that travel if you GENUINELY cannot store them on site & you take them with you everyday. Up to you if you use the cents per kilometre method or the logbook method as to whether you claim the finance on your ute."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 09, 2013 2:11PM

"What is the maximum km's you can claim without a log book? I am in a sales roles and visit clients regularly. "

By: Cayley on Jul 09, 2013 1:38AM

"5000km but the ATO requires that you have a reasonable basis to working out your travel eg 15 times visit Client X 56km round trip, etc etc"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 09, 2013 2:08PM

"Im a union rep at my work and for the past year we have had consulte meetings with the company every 2 weeks on the way the company is going in the future. These meetings i drive to in my own time. Can these meeting be tax deductable on the km"s i do over the year? Its roughly around 2,500 Cheers Rob"

By: Robert B on Jul 09, 2013 9:33AM

"I think the ATO will be comfortable with you claiming that travel."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 09, 2013 2:12PM

"Hi Taxman, I use my own car for business mile but my company is only offering to pay 'petrol' miles via a petrol card. This gives no consideration to wear and tear. Am I best to refuse it and make my own tax rebate claim for 45p per mile? Does the company have to agree for me to do this? Thanks"

By: mark h on Jul 09, 2013 7:42PM

"As we are based here in Australia Mar, I won't make comment about the UK rules - suggest you have a chat to an accountant over there. PS No mention of the Ashes nor the British Lions please!"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:24PM

"Hi, i am getting a car allowance and will have a hir purchase lease. can I claim the full lease payment plus running costs or is it just interest payments and depreciation? Thanks!"

By: NS on Jul 10, 2013 6:18AM

"Check the terminology that you have used - if you are referring to hire purchase then interest & depreciation (pending work-related percentage) is claimable. If lease, then the full lease payment is claimable (no depreciation nor interest)"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:22PM

"Hi, I'm a postgraduate Social Work Student on placement. I'm required to travel from my home to attend meetings, interviews etc in the course of my study placement. Am I entitled to claim the mileage for this travel?"

By: jason on Jul 11, 2013 5:22AM

"Travel between home & work is not claimable ... in any instance, if you are not getting paid for this work then there are no deductions available to you anyway as allowable deductions are only available when incurred whilst deriving assessable income."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:21PM

"Hello I travel about 100km daily as a sparky working usually on one site however can be expected to work anywhere on the network daily. there is a lockable storage on a few sites however over 20 ppl have a common key and some people can't help themselves, can i claim my car as tax dectutable? my daily tools and equipment would be well over 30kgs. Thanks."

By: John on Jul 11, 2013 9:35AM

"That is a tough one ... suggest you contact the ATO directly (13 28 61). My gut feel is no & to mark your name on all your tools."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:19PM

"Hi. I receive a car allowance of $15K and work pays for fuel & tolls. The car allowance is listed as such on my group certificate. Most recent records show 55% is business related use for my car. I am looking to buy a new car and wonder if leasing would provide any tax benefits. I'm assuming I could claim interest if I just got a loan and bought outright."

By: Andy on Jul 12, 2013 12:19AM

"Particularly with only having a logbook percentage of a (low-ish) 55%, I recommend that you minimise your car expenses as much as possible. Do you really need a new car? If so, then choose a car as cheap as possible & pick a financing option that has the lowest interest rate (or implied interest rate for lease) as you are only getting back 31.5% (assuming earning under $80k) of 55% of the outlay (ie only 16%)."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:17PM

"Hi, Work pays reimburses me for my petrol. I give the receipt and they cr my account. They haven't included this on my group certificate . How do I claim the reimbursement as income? Do I need to? Thanks "

By: Amanda on Jul 12, 2013 11:08AM

"Reimbursements - unlike allowances - are not assessable and you won't be able to claim any deduction against it either."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:14PM

"Hi. I use my car for work and is used 97% business. I get a travel allowance as part of my salary and this is also listed on my tax return. Can I still claim car expenses?"

By: Elaine on Jul 14, 2013 2:07AM

"You need to show the allowance as income in your return & also show your claim for work-related car expenses in item D1. Sounds like the logbook method will work nicely for you - hope you kept your receipts for the whole year."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:13PM

"As part of my job i am required to be on fire standby for a few weeks over summer. I need to carry my fire kit which is a large bag with clothing and PPE, uniform etc. i know i can claim km if i was to be called out but can i claim km to and from work (also there is no public transport to my office from home) on the days i can be called out from the office? I dont think it would weigh 20kg as has been the rule of thumb. "

By: Laura on Jul 15, 2013 10:39AM

"Was going to say probably yes til I saw the less than 20kg so probably not."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:12PM

"I work for an employer which requires me to work in a different location everyday. eg I'm assigned to Sunshine station Monday Tuesday Armadale etc. Can i claim this as business KM as it's a different location everyday? Also my partner receives $20 travel allowance each shift. He drives from station to station everyday. Can he claim the KM's? "

By: Mike on Jul 16, 2013 11:35PM

"Travel between home & work is not claimable but travel between work locations can be deductible."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:10PM

"Hi Taxman, Can I claim the $220 a month that I pay out of my wages to drive a company car with a fuel card? Some months I rarely use the company car and fuel allowance, should I be keeping my receipts and can I claim what I don't use?"

By: Maria on Jul 17, 2013 1:56AM

"Contributions towards a company car are not deductible (it is a pre-tax deduction). If you incur expenses on the company car then let your employer know as this may reduce any fringe benefits tax (FBT)."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:09PM

"I bought a new car on the business name which will be used for car rental purposes Would I be able to claim maintenance and any other expenses like depreciation and running costs even through the car will be making me income "

By: Sale on Jul 17, 2013 9:09AM

"Yes you can claim costs associated against your business income in the entity that the business is conducted in."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:07PM

"I often get called into work for overtime in a food factory. Can I claim for the use of my mobile/landline phone. Also, when working overtime can I claim for my unplanned meals. Thanks. "

By: Glenn on Jul 18, 2013 1:38AM

"You can claim a portion of your phone costs that are work-related. Keep a log of phone calls for one month to determine an appropriate percentage. For info on overtime meals see here http://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Income-and-deductions/Deductions-you-can-claim/Other-deductions/Overtime-meals/"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:05PM

"Can employee be reimbursed for the depreciation of a car by an employer? e.g. If depreciation is $4,000 and the business use is 50% can the employee claim a reimbursement for $2000?"

By: John on Jul 19, 2013 2:14AM

"The employee can try to claim anything but it is up to the employer if they are going to pay. If you are using your car for work purposes then simply ask for a car allowance that will cover your running costs including depreciation."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:03PM

"I am working as a community/personal care worker, employed on a casual basis. I do not receive fuel or travel allowance between clients homes. What can I claim please?"

By: Kim on Jul 19, 2013 11:37AM

"If you are using your car travelling between clients then you can claim your car expenses under the various methods outlined above. Simplest method is the cents per kilometre method but restricted to 5000km. The best method is the logbook method where you need to keep a log book for 12 weeks & keep all receipts for the whole year."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 9:01PM

"Hi, with the log book what information do I need to put in the logbook, I’m a tradie with a Ute carrying tools site to site, I recorded my kms once a week for 12 weeks, the Ute is 100% for work then use wife’s car to do everyday things, I have kept every fuel and toll receipts for the whole year do I only need to keep the ones in the 12 week period? Also can I claim racq membership? "

By: David on Jul 19, 2013 11:45AM

"Need to keep your receipts for the whole year, including the RACQ membership."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 8:59PM

"Hi Mr. Tax Man, I am from Adelaide and i used to work in Adelaide as an Engineer in a construction firm. Once the project finished, the South Australian Business unit transfered me to Queensland Business unit. Now, i am doing fly in fly out from Adelaide to Central Queensland. My company pays all my air travel, camp accomodation and food is being provided. I would like to know whether: 1) I can claim my car travel from home to airport (around 40km) and vice-versa; 2) I can claim my long term parking in tax return? Also, I am getting site allowance apart from Salary. Many Thanks, "

By: R S on Jul 21, 2013 4:39AM

"ATO have indicated that they don't allow travel to airport (nor parking at airport) for Fly-In, Fly-Out arrangements."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 8:56PM

"i live in tassie. and travelled to roxby downs to to shutdown work. caught the ferry then drove to roxby then drove back to tassie. tax agent said all me reciepts are no good.and cannot claim..any advice thanks"

By: dave on Jul 21, 2013 7:03AM

"No idea of that part of Tasmania but if you are travelling between home & work then no deduction."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 21, 2013 8:54PM

"You can claim the cost of trips between home and work where: ?You have shifting places of employment – you regularly work at more than one site each day before returning home. Does this mean a community care worker travelling to various clients each day before returning home, is an itinerant worker and can claim the travel from home?"

By: Kim on Jul 22, 2013 9:11AM

"You would be able to claim travel from home in this instance."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:02AM

"logbook: do i need to do my logbook everyday? my ute is only used for work so its pretty much 100% business. can i just log it once a week is that fine?"

By: Dave on Jul 23, 2013 12:49AM

"You need to keep a daily logbook for 12 weeks & show the purpose of each trip & the kms travelled for each trip. I know it is annoying but it is only for 12 weeks every 5 years."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:03AM

"I bought a car a year ago for private purposes. From a couple of months ago I am now using it for company purposes only. So it is only used for business use but is still in my name. Can I claim all car expenses (fuel, maintenance, registration, finance repayments, etc...) in the company books even if the car is in my name? "

By: Jenny on Jul 23, 2013 1:14AM

"Sure can - make sure you do a log book for 12 weeks & keep receipts for the whole year. Only the interest on your finance can be claimed though but the depreciation can be also claimed (unless you have lease payments * you claim the whole payment but no depreciation)."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:07AM

"I am employed in the city but have been required to work at another location full time for a few months at an alterative location. Can I claim car expenses for travelling from home and back to this alternative location?"

By: Steve on Jul 23, 2013 4:38AM

"Unfortunately not."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:08AM

"I have two different situations here: 1) I am studying at uni while also working as a personal trainer (income reported through an ABN). Can i claim the following travel: i - driving to see clients for PT work, ii - driving from the PT studio to/from uni? 2) I teach dance classes as well as do other dance work myself, all of the income I receive is through an ABN. What travel can I claim, between different types of work, eg from teaching a class to other paid dance work? Thanks"

By: Nick on Jul 23, 2013 5:43AM

"Basically you can claim all car travel during the day between the various income sources & study ... just don't claim the first & last trips of the day(that is, travel to/from home)."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:10AM

"If i am given a ccompany car and i pay for the petrol can i claim the cost of the petrol. I am a carpenter and carry my tools on this veichal."

By: Michael on Jul 23, 2013 11:16AM

"No - but tell your employer how much you pay as the FBT liability will reduce which means that you should get a higher net wage."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:11AM

"If a person is presently on a work contract for a limited period and regularly visits Job Futures in according with centre link requirements can this person claim the mv costs per km under D2?"

By: Frank de Graaf on Jul 24, 2013 1:15AM

"Interesting question Frank. I don't believe you could claim this travel."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:14AM

"If I use my girlfriends car for work due to me selling my car and was without one for a few months, am I able to claim for travel expenses from job to job?"

By: Brad on Jul 24, 2013 9:46AM

"Yes you can claim this travel, provided you can demonstrate that you are out of pocket for using the car (such as paying fuel etc)."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:15AM

"Hi My company is moving away from leasing vehicles and is giving me a car allowance of $12K. I need to purchase a car, do not do more that 4K kilometres each year and only 20% of this would be for work. For tax purposes is purchasing a car under $30K or a lease the best option for me? Many thanks Mike"

By: Mike on Jul 29, 2013 5:35AM

"I always go by the motto that all cars cost money & the cheaper the car, the better, particularly if you have such a small percentage to claim on tax. Assuming you are earning between $37k-80k, your tax deduction for expenses will be 20% x 34% of the expenses - or just a mere 6.8% ... meaning 93.2% of the car running costs you are funding yourself!"

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:18AM

"I work some days on the road and some in the office. Because i get paid milage Im told I do not get a permante desk (which I need). due to the tax man. is this right? and why?"

By: James on Jul 29, 2013 3:06PM

"I think the company is pulling the wool over your eyes in trying to keep costs down. I could imagine that there is nothing more frustrating that having to desk-hop a few days per week when all you want to do is do your job to the best of your ability each day & head off home,"

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:20AM

"hi i am a cleaner and carry all equiptment everyday from job to job,i have worked for 17months and not recieved any mileage pay or anything for wear n tear on my car,as i have done 25000 in the car i have had for 7months unable to provide mileage for the car before would i be able to claim back this mileage from my boss ?"

By: lynsey on Jul 29, 2013 6:59PM

"You can ask your boss for payment for mileage but they don't have to pay any. You might find that they have already incorporated into your pay rate."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:22AM

"Hi. I qualify to be paid a vehicle allowance under the "from your home to an alternative workplace for work purposes and then to your normal workplace or directly home" clause from the ATO. However, my employer pays 64.5 cents per KM where as the ATO rate is 74 cents per KM. Is there an option for me to claim the difference? My current calculations say that I could be out over $200 because of the difference in reimbursement rates. Thanks"

By: Richard on Jul 31, 2013 1:13AM

"Yes most definitely claim the difference in your return."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:23AM

"Hi. I would like to know if I can claim car expenses eg km as I work for a nursing agency. I travel from home to different work places and do community care. Thanks"

By: Alex on Jul 31, 2013 8:42AM

"You would be considered an itinerant worker so have a look above with what you can claim."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:24AM

"Hi, I have 2 jobs. I have a log book for the travel between the 2 jobs which totalled 844km (about 30km per trip) out of 5678 total km. I do however carry a trolley to and from work for my full-time job everyday (and it automatically goes to my second job as well because its in the car) A. can I claim travel to my main job (10km per day 20 return on the days I don't go to second job) (is a trolley classed as bulky item ?? I don't leave at work in case it goes missing) B. can I claim the return travel from my second job (about 20km) for the days I do go to second job as it is part of the return trip with the trolley? I have the log book for 12 weeks. Cheers Derek "

By: Derek on Jul 31, 2013 11:59AM

"I don't think the ATO would consider the trolley to met their definition of bulky & you would need to demonstrate that it couldn't be securely locked up each night. Only the trips between the 2 jobs could be claimed in my opinion."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:26AM

"Hi, I work for a large mining company and have been based in the city office for 2 years. In Feb this year I was seconded to a fly-in-fly-out role on site with the same company which requires me to drive to the airport at 5am every Mon and back from the airport at 8.30pm every Thur with luggage. I will be seconded and therefore doing this arrangement for a year. Would the city office be considered my normal place of work since I am on secondment, and could the airport/site be considered to not be my normal place work? Am I able to claim the travel between home and the airport? "

By: Jes on Aug 01, 2013 12:32AM

"The ATO do not consider travel costs associated with going to the airport in FIFO arrangements to be deductible."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:27AM

"Hi there, As part of my teaching degree at uni I had to complete teaching rounds at a school a fair way from home - can I claim the travel to the school as an education expense? Can Citylink tolls be claimed also?"

By: Will on Aug 08, 2013 12:59PM

"Sounds like you were doing the course whilst still not in current employment - if so then your education expenses are not deductible. If you were working in education at the time then there might be some travel that you could otentially claim."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 14, 2013 8:29AM

"Hi, my travel situation was quite complicated last financial year, hoping to clarify to what extent I'm eligible for a deduction. I lived in Tullamarine for all of 2012-13. My main place of work is at Heidelberg (I.T. support work), or at least it has been for 2012-13 and previous years. About 32k away from home, and of course not deductible for car travel. However, for a good 6-7 months from November 2012 right up to June 2013, i had to be involved in projects over at the company's other work location, in Scoresby (about 51km away from home) usually 2 days per week. Rather than give me a car allowance as was the practice in the past, the company just gave me a pay-rise of a few thousand/year, not specifying it as a car allowance. So, for 6-7 months I was travelling from home directly to and from Scoresby twice a week, while still going to my regular Heidelberg location 3 days a week. I have a personal record of my travel, and my tollway fee statements back up which days I travelled and to where (though I'm not planning to claim on toll fees, just travel to the alternate work location). Would my travel to/from home to Scoresby be claimable? The ATO might take the position that my travel to Scoresby is still just normal travel to work, though that seems a bit unfair to me... Thanks in advance for any thoughts on this."

By: Brett on Aug 15, 2013 4:13AM

"I should add.. my modest pay rise just pushed me into a higher tax bracket, and opened me up to student loan repayments, putting me in a worse position..."

By: Brett on Aug 15, 2013 5:38AM

"I just brought a work van as I am a apprentice and I do carpentry, some one told me I could claim 22% back on my van of the price I paid ?? I was just wondering if its true but if its not how much percent can I play back "

By: Scott on Aug 18, 2013 10:50PM

"I am an independent contractor for a marketing, events promotion and sales company in which i drove my car to the different job sites each day, which range from 20 minutes - 1 1/2 hours away. What can i claim on tax? "

By: Lara on Aug 20, 2013 12:35AM

"My job requires a fair bit of interstate travel generally at least 50 nights away a year. I have a travel allowance of $12,000 per annum which is shown on my group certificate. Last financial year I was required to go interstate for 6 months straight. I was not compensated to do so and still had to pay my bills at home mortgage etc. would i be able to claim anything on my tax for this like I usually do for the 6 months I was away?"

By: Amanda on Aug 28, 2013 5:52AM

"I am a Nanny in which my job involves taking the children to and from school and to their after school activities. could I claim this on tax? thankyou for your answer!"

By: alex on Aug 28, 2013 12:19PM

"everyday i travel between 2-3 houses as a therapist, which my company pays for the millage between these homes. however can i track mileage to private homes after these jobs that i go to (this private i am paid using respite work). also i am buying a new car for work as at this job i transport the client and need a bigger car to fit the wheelchair. can i claim this in taxes on my new car for work? how do i do this?"

By: Kari Lawrence on Aug 30, 2013 11:21PM

"I was paid a c-per-km car allowance for travel to a remote minesite and I would like to know if I can claim business km by way of logbook? Monday: City(home) to Minesite & minesite to regional town. 300km total Tues/Wed/Thurs: regional town to minesite and return (120km per day) Friday: regional town to minesite and then minesite to city (usual home). 300km total The business I worked for had a permanent address in the city but I was tasked with a site-based consultant role. I was also paid LAFHA for 4 days per week."

By: Deep on Sep 02, 2013 2:38AM

"Hi, I use my car for work purposes and have a letter signed by the employer to verify this. It was costing me an average $36.25 per week for the use and was received on average $11.53 fuel allowance. Can I now invoice my employer for the difference and then declare the amount on my next tax return"

By: Bernadette on Sep 04, 2013 2:12AM

"Hi, I work in close proximity of the airport in Melbourne and travel approx 40km's to the office. About four times a month I have to travel interstate - sometimes for a day and sometimes for 2 -3 days. Can I claim the travel to/from the airport on these days as business use?"

By: Pete on Sep 04, 2013 5:18AM

"Hi, For 2 years (2009/2010 & 2010/2011) I was claiming delining value depreciation and expenses on my vehicle for work. For the last two years I have made no work/tax claims on this vehicle. Now I have disposed of the vehicle, do I still have to make a balancing adjustment ? If so how do I take into account the two years I did not use it for work ?"

By: Michael on Sep 05, 2013 2:08AM

"Hi, can my son who is an apprentice auto-electrician claim travel costs to got to Trade School once a week?"

By: Merrelyn on Sep 08, 2013 1:52AM

"We export goods to overseas and had to invite clients from overseas to visit Australia to inspect local manufacturers. Can we claim the accommodation/meals paid for clients as deduction, under marketing not entertainment?"

By: Cindy on Sep 18, 2013 2:22AM

"Hi. Thanks for all the tax advice. My partner runs an electrical business. He has his own ute which he claims 98% of expenses, however often he uses my car to quote for jobs or when I am on school holidays and he doesn't require his extension ladder. My question is how do we claim the use by him of my car? I have all the kms and days documented. Do we put the expenses he incurred onto his tax return? We spoke to an accountant and they suggested we put the expenses on my tax return but this didn't seem right to me. I am a teacher so don't have many kms I can claim for. Would appreciate if you can give us some answers."

By: Katrina on Sep 27, 2013 2:06AM

"My wife is able to get a novated lease through her work, we only have one car and are thinking of upgrading to a lease, if we do a novated lease through her work can I still claim against my vehical allowance I get from my work?"

By: Tony on Sep 30, 2013 12:35PM

"Hey taxman, am I able to claim various accessories I have purchased for my ute? I have spent about $8000 on extras they are mainly 4x4 accessories which I believe are essential for my job (mechanic on site civil work)"

By: Jeff on Oct 10, 2013 1:28PM

"Hi, I have just gotten a job installing smart meters. I have a van supplied for me, but I have to pay my own petrol. I visit multiple sites daily (up to 20) and have to carry all of my tools and meter stock. I have to go to the depot every few of days to drop off rubbish and get more stock, but for the most part I drive directly to my first job from home. Am I able to claim on the petrol expenses? What documentation would i need to provide? Would I need to only log the kilometers between the jobs? Or am I able to claim on the kilometers from home, as my workplace changes daily. Cheers Cam"

By: Cam on Oct 18, 2013 12:59AM

"Hello, I have a casual job that over 5 months will involve travel of 9,000 kilometres in total. This involves testing water at 3 different sites each day I work and I will be using my own 4 cylinder car to travel between sites. I will be getting an allowance from my employer of 56 cents a kilometre. What if anything do I claim at Tax time and will Ii need to keep a logbook. Regards John"

By: John on Oct 30, 2013 5:38AM

"We have an employee who has been dismissed that is now wanting us to reimburse her for use of her car. In the first few weeks of her job she did use her car, however after that she CHOSE to use her own car when there was a company vehicle available to her. She has no log book and has guestimated what she has travelled using google maps. We told her that she was able to claim this through her personal tax. The same with her phone. She says she used it for work and wants us to pay most of the bill, but we have asked her to show the itemized phone bills to prove they were work ones. The reason we are questioning her integrity is that she has priors for fraud and theft we have just found out about. What should we do?"

By: Jane on Nov 07, 2013 10:27PM

"Hi. We have purchased a mechanical repair business and purchased a passenger vehicle as we use it to pick up customers and also parts etc. But after more research it appears we cant claim for driving it to the business from home even though it is a work vehicle but not a ute etc. Maybe we should sell it and purchase a ute to claim 100% . We purchased it thinking it would be a nicer car to ferry customers in. ?? Thankyou"

By: Louise on Nov 09, 2013 6:24AM

"Hello My wife is an engineer and her normal workplace is in a CBD office. She will be travelling to a work site everyday 80 km from our home for 2 years and due to distance it, makes more sense to drive from home directly there and back and the end of the day. Her employer is not providing a car. As the worksite is not her normal place of work, could this 160 km round trip x 5 days x 48 weeks of travel be claimed as business use? Thank you"

By: GS on Nov 20, 2013 1:10AM

"i am a firefighter and often get callled into work to work extra shifts on overtime. Can i claim the travel on getting into work from my home? I also have to carry heavy equipment into work?"

By: martine pearman on Nov 20, 2013 3:20AM

"Hi I have a novated lease car with my current employer which i pay post and pretax dollars. At the end of two year i pay a fixed amount to own the car. In addition from my primary employment i travel to my secondary place of employment. What can I claim if any, from the running expenses of the novated lease? thanks "

By: judy on Dec 04, 2013 3:17AM

"Bit confused about Itinerant Worker. I worked in Community Care as an Aged Care Nurse and often have to go to the office to start the day but travel to several clients throughout the course of the day before returning back to the office or directly to home. Some days I h have to skip the office and travel directly to clients. I do get paid for the km's travelled between clients (48c p/km) but can I claim for the travel expenses to and from work? Thanks"

By: Des on Jan 07, 2014 6:51PM

"using the ECM can i just claim the post tax expenses at tax time? it would be easier then setting up one pre-tax and one post tax budget which my employer"

By: STeve on Jan 21, 2014 6:45AM

"I'm a subcontrator truck driver. My truck is too big to park at my home whick I have a home office as well. Can I claim the cost purchase of a vehicle and costs associated to it to travel to/from the place where I keep my truck?"

By: Harry on Jan 21, 2014 11:48AM

"I'm a subcontrator truck driver. My truck is too big to park at my home whick I have a home office as well. Can I claim the cost purchase of a vehicle and costs associated to it to travel to/from the place where I keep my truck?"

By: Harry on Jan 21, 2014 11:50AM

"Hi, I am employed by an insolvency firm full time and I work from home. My employment contract states my place of work is my home address but also says I need to travel to the office for any client meetings, to hand over documents relating to jobs and for training. This could mean going in 3 days a week just for an hour or 2 in the middle of the day. Can I claim the KM's between home and the firm's office if my place of work is my residential address?"

By: Phil on Jan 27, 2014 10:10AM

"Hi I work for a company that is based in a different state to me. Therefore my employment is based full time from my home. I travel from my home regularly to visit clients in my own car. Can I claim the trips to and from my home (base of employment) if they are business related?"

By: Jim on Jan 30, 2014 11:19AM

"My contract is changing and I am to receive a vehicle allowance. I am choosing an FBT exempt car so that travel to and from work is exempt from FBT (construction industry). Work provides a fuel card, however I don't know if I can then claim Loan Interest, Vehicle Services/Maintenance, Registration & Insurance etc or if I wear those costs myself."

By: Julie on Jan 31, 2014 11:40PM

"Hi. I am a painter by trade and recently purchased a brand new ute on my ABN 100%. I work full time and carry my gear with me at all times. I work for someone and pay my own tax. I wanted to know what is it that i can claim and do i have to still keep a log book even though i use the car 100% for work. Thanks"

By: Amir on Mar 04, 2014 9:43AM

"Hi, When travelling to a work-related conference my partner drives me to the airport in my own car. Then I am collected in this car on return and travel airport to home. Can I claim mileage on either of those two legs of the journey please? "

By: Peter on Mar 25, 2014 12:08PM

"I have been offered a job where I need to use my own car, I will be travelling from home everyday to different places of wrok training apprentices, I will get a fuel card, but what is the best way to claim ? %, km, or log book ? or would it be best to come to an agreement with my employer so he pays me $ per Km and how much would be normal for this ?"

By: Darren on Apr 05, 2014 4:54AM

"Am I able to claim mileage from my employer and claim the same mileage against my tax for use of my car for work purposes? I am required to travel to my company's multiple workplaces as part if my role as HR Manager."

By: Sonia pitt on Apr 08, 2014 9:51AM

"For 6 days, I was involved in the set up and running of an offsite trade show. I traveled either from: work - show - work work - show - home home - show - home My workplace has advised that on the days I either drove from home - show - home, r work - show - home, that they would only cover the km expenses as if i were driving from the workplace. Is this fair? Is this ethical? Is this legal?"

By: Russell on Apr 09, 2014 1:23AM

"Hi, I am a sole trader with my own ABN registered to my home address. I am in the position to work from home if required but havnt as yet. I am contracted as an I.T consultant and then sub contracted to a client based in the south eastern suburbs of melbourne. Can I claim car expenses from my home to the client? thanks Andrew"

By: Andrew on Apr 18, 2014 7:21AM

"Hi, I would like to know if i can travel expense even if my employer is reimbursing me everything. My employer reimburses me the expense of the train. Can i claim the gas expense for me traveling in my car from my house or office to the train station or job site? "

By: Pankaj on Apr 22, 2014 12:57PM

"Hi there, My partner is a boiler make and travels from drysdale to queenscliff (on site) he also works on the wharfs on boats and other sites where boats are to be fixed. He carries his welders to and from these sites in the back of his ute as there is no where secure (due to insurance) for him to store them at the business owners shed. I want to double check that it is ok for him to claim his vehicle related expenses to and from the work sites? he has been doing this via the log book method. Can he also claim the depreciation of his vehicle? if so how does he calculate this? Thanks"

By: jacinta on Apr 23, 2014 12:19AM

"Hi I Appreciate your opinion I am a specialist. work in my practice as main work place, I work in public hospital near the practice, one private hospital 4km away, where I go to see patients daily or twice a day. and another practice in 40km away twice a week, where I have to carry all the patient's files, printer and computer, brief case and few small equipment required for examination . I go to another private hospital twice a month. This is directly from home to private hospital , then back to main practice , to public hospital and home Am I itinerant worker. can I say I am taking bulky equipment. when can I claim from home to work and work to home. Thanks"

By: prematilake on May 11, 2014 3:52AM

"Hi, Can I claim fuel on my tax as I have to carry all my Protective equipment with me in my car everyday as I can't be anywhere on the work site without it?"

By: Richard on May 16, 2014 1:56AM

"G'Day, I travel quite a bit for work in my own car, I've done just less than 20 000km of business mileage this year alone. My company have given me a fleet card which I only use for petrol and the occasional service. My question is can I still claim the full 20 000km mileage through my tax return? My understanding is that the dollar value achieved in my tax return from the mileage will then have the total spent on the fleet card deducted from that amount? I have a 3 month log book with all petrol receipts for that period and service receipts. It would be a far better return if I was able to claim logbook mileage other than the car depretiation option or the base 5000km (non logbook) option. Are you able to clarify?"

By: Loyde on May 27, 2014 11:05AM

"I had to travel from home to a college to give a presentation then to my normal workplace, can I claim expenses on tax?"

By: RosieCat on May 29, 2014 1:02AM

"Hi, Can I claim fuel on my tax as I am doing paper (Pumphletes) delivery as part time and i have to carry pumphletes load in my car to distribute in the area."

By: Gurinder on Jun 05, 2014 12:52AM

"Hi. I work in the medical field (optometrist) and I fill in for people at different places as a contractor (sole trader). I do take my own equipment to use (not particularly bulky as it's 2 bags the size of a laptop bag, but both at least double the depth). I am at all different places, sometimes for a week at a time, sometimes only a day at a time. Can I claim travel expenses to and from home to the places I go. I would think not, but would like to check. Many thanks"

By: James on Jun 22, 2014 12:15PM

"Hi I am a medical doctqor and work on ABN as sub contractor. I travel to my clinic 35 kms everyday from my home and 35 kms back home. Few days a week I have to go to local hospital , nursing home , home visits etc from my clinic and then back to clinic. I have a car on loan which I use for all these travelling. Please advise what can I claim on my tax return. Can I claim my car and loan interest on my car? Many thanks. Regards. "

By: Amit on Jun 24, 2014 12:21PM

"Hi I travel to Tafe twice a week but use my motorcycle. Would I be able to claim "car" expenses? As the actual expense is travel costs"

By: kyle on Jun 25, 2014 3:50AM

" Hi I am on a abn as a sub ccontractori i got a loan through bank to purchase a truck for work utility for 15000 is it possible to claim any of that?? Thanks "

By: greg on Jun 27, 2014 1:48PM

"My husband recently took up a new sales-oriented job which means he does some local travelling in order to gain more business for the company and also visit old clients. He would probably travel a total of 2 weeks in any month and spends the rest of the time in the office. He receives a car allowance and bought a second hand Dual Cab Ute. When we went to register the ute in his name at the RMS we weren't sure whether to register it for Business or Private Use. We registered the car for Business use (which was a lot more expensive) but were wondering if we did the right thing. The rego is due for renewal in November and it would be great to get a better idea of what we need to do when we renew then."

By: Lurinda on Jul 08, 2014 4:57AM

"Hi There, I am a road traffic controller, The company that I work for is very small and does not have a work base and only consists of two employees Myself & my co-worker whom has the work ute 24/7 so I have to use my own car to travel to clients worksites sometimes shifting worksites 2 or 3 times a week. can I claim travel expenses?"

By: Margaret on Jul 09, 2014 6:39AM

"Hi there, i am a cafe manager and frequently have to go into work on my rdo's. Am i able to claim travel expenses ie km and parking? thanks "

By: Chris on Jul 09, 2014 11:12AM

"HI My partner uses the car for his work (sales rep) and I have a company car, ATO has refused my partners claim for Travel expenses based on the fact that he can’t prove ownership of the car, we have been in a defacto relationship for 14 years and I paid for the car 9 years ago, My question is: seeming that we have been in a defacto relationship for more than 2 years “IS the car automatically deemed as 50/50 ownership? And therefore "who paid for the car” is irrelevant? Or is the ATO correct because I paid for the car he can’t claim travel expenses? "

By: Jamie on Jul 11, 2014 12:46PM

"Hi I am wondering if I am able to claim fuel as I have to carry my tools to and from work everyday. We have a massive shed but there is no where inside the shed for me to lock my stuff up that's why I take them home everyday, and I have stuff stolen in the past by other employees. Would I qualify to claim fuel and what percentage? Thankyou"

By: Daniel on Jul 13, 2014 3:34AM

"Hi there, i have my own business and i also work as a manager for a large company. for both of my jobs i use my car for business. My question is Can i claim the 5000KM for the same car once in D1 for where i am a manager and once at the business schedule for my business?"

By: Michael on Jul 16, 2014 1:28PM

"Hi, I work full time and study part time so often have to go to work, then school or school back to work. I know i can claim the mileage but can I claim the parking for while I'm at school? Thank you "

By: Paula on Jul 17, 2014 2:03PM

"I work as a temp. My employment office is in canberra and I live in a different state.. Although I am currently contracted by the agency to work 1 hr away, this could change with 24 hours notice and I would be traveling to a new destination. Can I claim fuel? Is there any other specific things I can claim as a temp?"

By: Donna eaton on Jul 19, 2014 7:11AM

"Hi there, I run a painting business as a sole trader and sometimes take on jobs interstate. As I have to transport bulky items such as ladders can I claim the return trip as business kilometres? Secondly, I purchased a vehicle during 2013 which is used partly for my business. I cannot claim depreciation this year as I want to use the cents per kilometre method, so do I still need to add it to my general small business pool with no values listed on the worksheet? Thanks"

By: Dion on Jul 20, 2014 5:55AM

"If I have a laptop that I take home from work and work on it each night are the kms claim able?"

By: Robert on Jul 22, 2014 9:08AM

"I travel from NSW to WA for work. I have to stay in Sydney over night to catch the morning flight to get to work. Can I claim that stay in Sydney? "

By: Darren on Jul 25, 2014 5:27AM

"I am an employer, I have a staff member who is employed full time. For 7 days a year she is required to work in the afternoon at a client which can be anywhere from 2-15 km away from our office. This work starts after lunch, she is paid 1/2hr before lunch to allow her time to get there and finishes 1hr before her usual finish time. She is paid up to her usual finish time even though she goes straight home. So I have paid her 1 1/2hrs at her normal rate for her travel time when the journey is actually on 15 mins each way. She is now asking for car expenses on top of this. Is she entitled to both her usually hourly rate ($40/hr) and car expenses?"

By: Loretta on Jul 26, 2014 10:01PM

"Can either my wife or I claim deduction expenses and medical expenses over the threshhold. This year it would suit for her to claim these tax deductions although this has not been the case necessarily in past years."

By: Tony Swain on Jul 29, 2014 5:36AM

"I live 2 hours away from work and travel 258km a round trip, can I claim anything back?"

By: sean on Jul 30, 2014 4:18AM

"I do FIFO can I claim parking at the airport while im away"

By: scott on Aug 01, 2014 6:48AM

"Hi, Company is providing novated lease car and I use this car for work (as I am a sales person). Can I claim worl realted car expenses for the tax return? Thanks."

By: Bryan on Aug 02, 2014 4:28AM

"In my PAYG Summary I have the following Gross Payment 31000 Reportable Fringe Benefit 30000 Tax withheld 3200 Total allowance 7000 (paid for kms travelled at work) I travelled around 15000 kms for the year, out which 6000 was for the work purpose. I need to know If i can still claim work related car and travel expenses ? and what would be the best way as I own car on loan worth 20000 if that can help me in claiming my tax as right now looks like I owe around $7000 to ATO without claiming anything, please help. regards Reg"

By: Reg on Aug 02, 2014 6:31AM

"I am a first aid trainer, I use my own laptop and ipad to conduct the courses. I also carry other necessary equipment, relevant to the courses that I take, as there is no permanent work place, as I can take a course at any number of locations. I store my equipment in the car and home, the equipment is my own. What can I claim? I also use a digital pen for another work place, which I use 100% at the work place, but I have to use my own laptop for the program connected with the digital pen. Can I claim these items as well?"

By: Heather on Aug 03, 2014 8:25AM

"Hello, I work in a very large shopping centre, during the night shift I use my own vehicle to patrol the centre carkparks checking door and car parks etc. It would be possible to walk the distance but it would be exhausting and not as safe. Could I claim for using my vehicle, and if so would i claim for the distance traveled to site instead of taking public transport or just the distance traveled on site. Cheers"

By: Zed on Aug 04, 2014 3:45AM

"Hi I recently bought myself a ute for work as I'm a painter. I just wanted to know how do I claim for my old car which was a station wagon and it was solely for work and carried all my tools and equipment and my second hand ute. Can I claim the amount I paid for the ute and everthing I paid to get it registered"

By: Daniel on Aug 04, 2014 7:42AM

"hello. i have a job that requires me to do many kms every year, i dont do a log book. so i claim 5000kms. (i do alot more than this). this year i have created my own small business with an abn. i still work at the other place aswell. is it possible to claim both 5000kms for my wage job and my abn business? or is it only 5000kms per individual. this is of course assuming i do at least 10,000kms a year that is business realted."

By: John on Aug 06, 2014 2:53AM

"You have given nice tips to claim our car expenses. I really like your blog. Yes, it is true that we cannot claim on short trips between home to work. Due to hike in oil prices it becomes very difficult to think economically. Short trips increases your fuel cost. I too in a dilemma about how i can claim my car expenses. http://www.germanformula.com/repair-shop/"

By: Albert Freeman on Aug 11, 2014 11:06AM

"Hello, I have just moved 3.5 hours south from the city and from my current work place. I am allowed to work from home, however i do have to travel every fortnight to the office in the city. Am i able to claim this at tax time? My partner is also a FIFO worker and now has to travel to the city to catch his flight. Can he now claim the travel costs, now that we live regional? Any help would be much appreciated. "

By: Roisin on Aug 12, 2014 3:56AM

"Hi, Having just started trading as a bookkeeper i am travelling quite a lot to networking meetings and seminars to drum up work. Can I legitimately charge this as an expense or claim the costs through my tax return?"

By: Neil on Aug 13, 2014 2:57AM

"i am home-health nurse and many days i make less than stated fee when u take into account travel time to my next patient . is there a way to recoup that someway in my taxes."

By: yvonne on Aug 19, 2014 3:53AM

"Hi, I know that the maximum for cents per km is 5k but the ATO says it is 5k per car. So if I use 2 different cars for work purposes in a fiscal year but both are unter 5k can I claim all of it? So my example is car 1 I travel 3k for work & Car 2 i travel 4k for work (same company) - can I claim 7k worth or is it still only 5k?"

By: Rebecca on Aug 19, 2014 4:50AM

"Hi, I often travel between offices to perform my duties within the group I work for, occasionally travel to clients homes & business's and I travel a decent distance to attend monthly company meetings. I receive a car allowance and wonder what expenses I can claim, if any. My vehicle is on a chattel mortgage."

By: Seth on Aug 20, 2014 6:48AM

"Hi My partner is a plasterer and requires his car for work as carries all the tools required for each job. The purchase price falls over the luxury car limit and is a leased car. He has a full log book and uses it for 90% work related purposes. Am I able to claim both the lease payments and decline in value? I look forward to hearing from you. Cheers Kylie"

By: Kylie on Aug 26, 2014 11:34PM

"Hi Mr Taxman, loved your book. Here is a predicament I am trying to work through. We have a home mortage and a line of credit to pay for the costs relating to an investment property. Are there any problems with banking the rent I receive from my investment property into my own mortgage to reduce non deductbile interest and letting the line of credit capitalise interest? When I plan to buy my second property I intend to reduce my limit on my mortgage and then increase the limit on my line of credit (so my overall debt is the same) but I have just made some of my debt deductible that was previously not deductible. Can I do this?"

By: Briony on Sep 02, 2014 12:17PM

"Hi Mr.Taxman, I (TFN) use my own car for all work related activities for my employer from the business address to where ever is required. Should I opt for a payment by my employer on cents/km basis or claim it as an outgoing cost to me as a deduction in my personal income tax? Bit confused as to which option is better for me? Best Regards, thank you. "

By: Naz on Sep 03, 2014 3:58AM

"Hi Taxman, I am looking at a lease arrangement $100 per week. over 5 years. I currently am only receiving an allowance of $1200 a year. I am looking at doing over 20,000km per year. Working on roughly 80% for work purposes. Do i claim all expenses at 80%? Lease cost, fuel, rego, insurance, services eg. i will have a logbook."

By: Chris on Sep 09, 2014 11:32AM

"Recently I started doing some freelance work in addition to the work I am doing through the week. I started this in May 2013 however I have only been able to invoice now as the work needs to be completed before I get paid. I have incurred considerable expenses (i.e. used my car, new computer worked from home, paid for wwc checks etc) and I am wondering that although I have not generated an income yet from the freelance work yet am I able to claim these expenses against my other income from 2013/14? Thankyou!"

By: Anna on Sep 13, 2014 8:23AM

"Recently I started doing some freelance work in addition to the work I am doing through the week. I started this in May 2013 however I have only been able to invoice now as the work needs to be completed before I get paid. I have incurred considerable expenses (i.e. used my car, new computer worked from home, paid for wwc checks etc) and I am wondering that although I have not generated an income yet from the freelance work yet am I able to claim these expenses against my other income from 2013/14? Thankyou!"

By: Anna on Sep 13, 2014 8:23AM

"I live 23 miles from my work place. I drive to work and drive home. However, during my working hours I also have to drive to other places for work, for example, we run lots of events over Norfolk and Suffolk so I have to drive from work to the events and back, to then drive home. I can be driving up to 40 miles away, and then back, to then drive home. Surely I can claim as I do not get paid any mileage? Thanks"

By: Maddie Darrell on Sep 18, 2014 9:18AM

"Hi Mr Taxman. I have two jobs (different employers) approx 17 kilometers apart. Can I claim car expenses for travel between the two places of employment if I have a meal break on the way? "

By: Alex Hampshire on Sep 18, 2014 1:58PM

"Hi..My son is a cleaning sole trader and doesn't drive.So I take him to his work and we carry all his gear from ladders to mops and buckets.I have a log book and all petrol dockets and we travel 80kms each way from home to his job 3 days per week.Can he claim is kms or petrol"

By: Donna on Sep 21, 2014 1:07PM

"Hi There. I run a mobile spray tanning business. I drive to each clients house from my house to give them a spray tan. Sometimes I would drive to one client and then another straight after if I have a few bookings. Am I able to claim any of these km? Thank you for your advice."

By: Bree on Sep 22, 2014 7:42AM

"Im doing an apprenticeship and my boss makes me go from a work site to the store to get parts and deliveries. I mean I use my own car and petrol going to differnent work sites each day but I dont find it fair that I have to use my own car as a delivery driver also. Shouldnt my boss be paying that petrol?"

By: James on Oct 07, 2014 8:15AM

"I get a car allowance as part of my package. Does my employer have to show this allowance on my PAYG statement? If my PAYG statement does not show my allowance can I still claim deductions against the allowance to the full amount of 17K."

By: Peter on Oct 17, 2014 8:46PM

"My partner & I are officers of a corporation. My partner lives 50 miles from our office. We have a number of clients in her hometown. She makes deliveries to some of those clients in her hometown on her way home. She says she can be reimbursed for the whole trip to her hometown, plus then to the client's business. I say she should only be allowed the mileage reimbursement from her home to the client's business & back home, because from work to her home would be commuting. Who is correct?"

By: Lynette on Jan 07, 2015 9:35PM

"I am currently using Kilo meters estimated method to claim an annual expenses of $3800. Am I entitle to claim depreciation for my car and purchase price of $5000. Would I be able to claim GST on petrol. Many thanks for your advise"

By: Loretta on Jan 12, 2015 2:37AM

"Hi, I'm an office worker and have worked with the same company in the same position for over 6 years. My work is located about 28kms from home at the moment but in a few moths the office is relocating to the other side of the city increasing my travel/drive to 52.5km one way. I also work at home for them two days a week. My question is 1. Can I claim any travel once we relocate office and 2. Can I clam any tolls associated with the increased driving distance. 3. Can I clam any travel on the days I work from home and have to go into office for meetings. Thanks"

By: Jane on Jan 29, 2015 2:43AM

"Hi, My actual job is based in Australia and my company sent me overseas and paid in $AUD in my Australian bank account. My company sent me payment summary that was showing on PAYG- foreign employment summary without any allowance shown on it. Company organized all my residence/taxi but did not pay for my meals and incidentals at all. Can I claim this expense as per day for the duration of stay that accounts to 9 months almost. Would I need to substantiate these expenses."

By: Asim on Mar 05, 2015 1:25PM

"hi im wondering if im able to claim fuel expenses on my tax as I travel 120kms to and from work every day by that I mean 60kms in the morning and 60kms in the afternoon. "

By: Lisa on Mar 08, 2015 11:58PM

"Hello, I am a agency nurse. I did not have a normal workplace. I work in different hospital every day. Could I claim the car expenses between my home and workplace. Thanks. "

By: Elsa on Mar 25, 2015 10:46PM

"Hi, I'm a site manager on a construction site with a fully maintained vehicle through my company. I'm choosing to buy a Ford Ranger ute at the end of this lease term in Dec. I carry tools from home to work each day. If I finance a lease with this allowance what can I claim back. I understand it matters what type of finance you take out on the vehicle. Thanks"

By: Greg on Apr 23, 2015 5:58AM

"Hi my husband's work just recently got work Utes and all the managers have been told to drive them to and from work for advertising purposes but his work doesn't pay for fuel Can my hubby claim the fuel he pays each week through his tax ? "

By: Judy on Apr 23, 2015 10:23AM

"Hey guys my daughter is a relief bank worker and they send her to numerous branches to work without supplying a car or allowance. Is she able to claim the kms as a travelling expense"

By: Harvey on Apr 30, 2015 9:34AM

"Hi my partner is a subcontractor and we need to know what to charge the customer for travel per km"

By: Rochelle on May 05, 2015 6:30AM

"Hi, I am a Security Officer, and am required to travel to a different site each day for work. Is this travel something that I can claim on tax due to it being different places each day? Thanks."

By: JB on May 11, 2015 7:09AM

"Hi, My normal workplace has changed in the last 3 weeks. They've asked me to travel to 2 different workplaces but I will stay at the one workplace per day. Is the commute to and from the new workplace claimable as I've been asked to go to the new workplace?"

By: Nic on May 21, 2015 11:28PM

"Hi, I am currently considering a job offer which includes a car allowance of 20K plus a fuel card. My salary is 90K and I work from a home office. I am looking to purchase a vehicle for 45k which will be used for work 95% of the time. Can you advise the most effective financing option for taxation purposes"

By: Harry Voigt on May 26, 2015 3:00PM

"I work intermittently on Western Australian Minesites through labour hire in Perth flying in from Brisbane . I am required to supply my own tools and PPE which exceeds 20kg . Is there any tax deduction there for my flights . "

By: Mark on May 28, 2015 1:43AM

"Hi, I work as a doctor in 2 hospitals, one as PAYG and other as contractor ( sole trader). I just travel from home to hospital, some need to patient's records of I need to review them or I work at home to prepare for teaching/ roster. Can I buy a car and get this new $20000 tax credit from my sole trader job?"

By: Laksh on May 31, 2015 3:10AM

"Hi, I am an employee for a company where I distribute bags of samples , I have to use my car to carry a large trolley and carry large boxes of stock to and from work , I also have to store the stock at home in my garage , the company have dismissed paying for insurance to cover this on my car and I don't get paid extra for carrying or storing the stock ! Should I get paid for milage and or time ? Thanks Georgina?!,,,"

By: Georgia Hallyday on Jun 03, 2015 12:18PM

"I travel to TAFE for my apprenticeship 24 times a year. The TAFE is 75kms further away than my normal work place. Can I claim fuel costs for the TAFE travel?"

By: Brayden on Jul 02, 2015 6:46AM

"Hi my usual place of work burnt down and we were forced to travel twice a week to another town and stay more than one night which the employer covered the cost of accommodation but nothing else.. I regularly was asked to drive up other employees to the work site and sometimes bring boxes of stuff work related from old workplace to Temparary workplace.. No living away from home allowance was given "

By: Kerry on Jul 05, 2015 12:29AM

"To claim vehicle expenses for a contractor who has to carry his tools to and from various sites and home, does the vehicle have to 1. Be a utility 2. Have at least a 1T carrying capacity?"

By: Kristy on Jul 08, 2015 11:33AM

"Hi I drive to & from home to work 1 hr each way, I get paid petrol km's during work hours, can I claim for anything else, thanks "

By: Sue on Jul 13, 2015 2:23AM

"Hi I work in disability and I am doing a TAFE diploma in disability. My employer pays my wage for the 6 hours , once a month I attend the class . I travel from my home to class and then home again. I do not get a car allowance Can I claim the kilometres? "

By: Mark on Jul 21, 2015 7:01AM

"hi, despite reading everything on the ato website, I still don't understand the difference in claiming work kms in items D1 and D2. I travel between multiple work sites during the week."

By: sue on Jul 23, 2015 6:45AM

"Hi, do you have an accountant or tax agent? I suggest seeing them about this to ensure you claim correctly."

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By: Desny Kimberley on Jul 23, 2015 8:32PM

"I have a novated lease company car as part of my salary packaging and will need to transfer this to make personal payments as I will be going on Maternity Leave shortly. Will my husband (who also does the similar work as an Engineer carrying tools of trade - not able to be left on site) be able to claim the full lease payments if he uses the car for work purposes instead of our private car?"

By: Candice on Jul 30, 2015 5:48AM

"Hi, i work away and every 3 weeks drive 150 km to the airport and my wife drives the cat home. I used to claim 77 cents per Km both ways as the car has to go home or into storage. I was paid for years. Now my employer says they will only pay one way as i am not in the car on the return trip and have reduced the rate to 66 cents per Km. Does this sound fair to you. Regards"

By: Andy Campbell on Aug 01, 2015 5:11AM

"I am a manager and get an allowance for a car. If I travel to different places of work during my working day, can I claim back tax or can I claim kilometres?"

By: John Galloway on Aug 02, 2015 9:07AM

"my new employer is paying me a $10,000 tax free vehicle allowance to supply and use my own vehicle. I will be required to drive between many of their transport depots to deliver training courses. I am trying to work out exactly what this means and how to calculate it all.. cheers "

By: craig franklin on Aug 04, 2015 3:56AM

"I have started a new job for a Housing Provider and receive a $10,000 per year car allowance. Can I claim for the mileage I do, which is business mileage of course?"

By: Vic Cox on Aug 17, 2015 2:34AM

"Thank you for taking the time to answer all of these questions. I work from home for one employer and have an office set up for that work. I then travel from there to another employer. I do not do this daily. I stay in rental accomodation for my second job and then will travel home after a few days and resume work from there for my other employer. Is this travel tax deductible?"

By: Jason on Aug 17, 2015 11:27PM

"Hello I ocassionally have to travel to a different place of work, or run errands for my boss (including getting the post which isn't on my way to or from work as its further from home than my place of work is). Can I claim the business mileage? I don't get reimbursed any travel related expenses. Will the ATO claim this back on my boss? Thanks "

By: Biz on Sep 11, 2015 2:11AM

"Hi - I work full time as a tiler and travel in my own ute with cutters grout ect to various jobs sites sometimes 3 in a day sometimes at the same site for a week or two. Filling out my tax says under the car expense calculator that a ute van etc isn't eligible under that section so what section do I use and can I claim 100% as we go everywhere else in my girlfriends car? Thanks Scott"

By: Scott on Sep 13, 2015 5:12AM

"Hi. I have a question about claiming car allowance for a second job. I know I can claim kms from first job to second job, however can I claim km from home to second job on those days I don't go directly from first job. Also at the end of day at my second job I often deliver customer orders to clients (sporting goods). Can I claim kms from workplace to client and then home? Thank you ps I get a car allowance and I keep a log book."

By: James on Sep 24, 2015 10:41AM

"I am required to travel 17 miles to my employers offices (out of normal office hours) to collect a vehicle and equipment to drive to the location of the day's event (the event can last 1, 2 or even 3 days with overnight stays) I am then required to drive the vehicle and equipment back to my employers offices (out of hours) at the end of the event. I then have to collect my own vehicle and drive back home 17 miles. Am I entitled to claim the 34 miles home to work mileage (34miles) at the companies normal mileage rate of 45p per mile ?"

By: Roger Bamber on Sep 27, 2015 3:00PM

"I work as a Security Officer however I do not have a permanent site that I work on. I'm what the company calls an MRO (Mobile Regional Officer) I do shift cover for different sites each day i.e covering holiday and sickness. They do provide Me with a fuel card. Would I be able to claim for my mileage expenses going to one different site each day or would it only be for multiple sites. Many thanks."

By: Simon Taylor on Oct 06, 2015 6:19PM

"I travel from Home as a casual merchandiser to regional areas in my own car. I live 90 kms from my head office and will travel say 400kms to a job is start at 10 pm in the evening and work till 6 am in the morning. I then get to stay in a motel and am required to sleep at least 6 to 8 hour before driving another 250 kms to the next destination,and repeat the work, I then have to travel 300 kms to get home after sleeping. My home is an extra 90 kms from the head office. Do i get paid for my drive home or to the head office? I get .78cents per km but they say they do not pay the first 100kms to the job and calculate the job from their head office. They also say that when i leave the first nights job i do not get paid the first 100kms is this correct? I get only $50 a night living allowance is this also correct? And do they have to pay me for travel time including compulsory breaks while driving to these destinations? sorry its so complex!! "

By: Grant on Oct 07, 2015 9:50PM

"I work as a casual teacher. I go to the same school most days, and I am Art trained. I leave all my art resources ( books, examples some materials etc) in my car because I sometimes need them when I get asked to teach art ( which happens often). I Also leave my runners and sporting clothes in my car in case I teach PE. Can I claim my travel? and can I claim car repairs?"

By: Jo on Oct 16, 2015 1:43AM

"While parked at work, I was a victim of a hit and run resulting in substantial damage to my car, although the car was still drivable after the incident. Repairs were covered under my insurance but I was wondering if I can claim the excess on my taxes?"

By: Ritchie on Oct 25, 2015 11:50AM

"Hi, I work as a fitness instructor and travel form preschool to preschool to teach children. I need lots of equipment, can I claim driving too work and inbetween to each preeschool? Even if I am given a driving allowance by my employer? Thank you! This site is really helpful! "

By: Ruth on Oct 31, 2015 12:03AM

"Hi, I work as a fitness instructor and travel form preschool to preschool to teach children. I need lots of equipment, can I claim driving too work and inbetween to each preeschool? Even if I am given a driving allowance by my employer? Thank you! This site is really helpful! "

By: Ruth on Oct 31, 2015 12:03AM

"Hi I am a Representative for the company I work at, and I use my personal car to go out and rep. My petrol and phone a part of my phone is paid for yet my car needs to be serviced. I would just like to know who's responsibility is it? Is it mine or the companies. "

By: Niel on Nov 03, 2015 4:45PM

"I'm a tradie and I regularly travel to our office in the morning to pick up materials and tools before travelling onto sometimes various jobs. Am I entitled to claim travel from the office to said jobs and back home again. "

By: Dani on Nov 30, 2015 9:41AM

"I'm a freelance camera operator for a television station and often get called into work at moments notice. The station is in the city and I don't have access to their car park because I'm not a full time employee so I park my car in a car park next door. I've been told that because I'm 'on call' I can claim costs incurred by parking my car their. Is that the case? Would it fall under D1 category? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. "

By: Joel on Dec 13, 2015 5:36AM

"Hi, I recently got a new office based job and now need to purchase a car for work travel/personal use. I'm considering to get a car through finance, would I be able claim anything back in terms of repayments, interest and depreciation if the car is worth about say $15000? I basically want to know if it's worth financing or not as i'm currently paying over $17000pa in tax.Thanks"

By: Ali on Jan 03, 2016 6:49AM

"Congrats on the new job Ali. Essentially you can claim the interest on the loan (not the principal) plus depreciation at 25% of the purchase price of the car in Year 1 ... note though that you can only claim the work-related percentage of these amounts based on your 12 week log book."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 01, 2016 12:27PM

"Hi, I recently purchased a small retail business which came with a ute. Can I claim the travel to and from my place of business as this is a business only vehicle? I then use it for deliveries during the day. Thanks!"

By: Paul on Jan 21, 2016 11:18PM

"Good luck with the new business Paul. Yes travel FOR work is deductible (as distinct from travel TO work)"

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 01, 2016 12:25PM

"hi I recently started a new job in NSW. I was told at the interview that I would receive a tax free allowance. It was confirmed via 3 emails, 1 week after this confirmation I receieved the contract. In the contract it states the car allowance is taxed. I received my first pay check and it was taxed. Can I still claim milage, car insurance, rego and wear and tear on the car for the work related use it gets ? or did they screw me over my giving me the car allowance ?"

By: david c on Feb 28, 2016 9:22PM

"Congrats on the new job! You can definitely claim your wear n tear of your car based on your work usage. Start keeping those receipts & do a logbook for 12 weeks. "

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 01, 2016 12:23PM

"My husband has salary sacrificed his $38,000 car as part of a government job as a firefighter and from what I understand can use the pooled funds set aside for maintenance services, petrol, car rego and car insurance etc. He also works a second job on a casual basis as a carpenter and is required to carry bulky items (carry ladders, welding tools etc). Can he claim the kms travelled to this second job or between his first job and second job (because by wear and tear he is depreciating the cost of the vehicle) or is this not allowed?"

By: Mel Jarrett on Mar 02, 2016 1:55AM

"Thanks for the message Mel. Yes the packaging of the car includes maintenance, petrol, rego, insurance etc - but only for this car & not any other vehicle in the household. The lower that you do spend the better as ultimately your husband is paying for it our of his salary pre-tax. Generally any adjustments are made by payroll after the FBT year is over on 31 March. With respect to travel between jobs, he wouldn't be able to claim as he is incurring expenses with pre-tax dollars."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 02, 2016 9:29AM

"Mr Taxman, I have 2 places of work one in Sydney and one in Newcastle and live in Sydney. I travel to Mewcastle most weeks for 2-3 days using my own car. How are kms treated from travel between accomodation and 2nd workplace when away from home in Newcastle ? Thanks"

By: Michael on Mar 03, 2016 9:03AM

"I would say that the ATO would view this travel as non-deductible as travelling between home & work. "

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 03, 2016 11:25AM

"Hi there, I work as a full time plumber and I also have an second job as a support worker. I know I can claim the travel from my first job to the second job however when I finish my second job I travel back to my first job to do more work. My question is can I claim the travel from my second job to my first job? Thanks very much"

By: Shannon on Mar 07, 2016 2:46AM

"You sure can Shannon. "

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 07, 2016 5:23PM

"Can two individuals claim 5000kms on the same car? Ie both myself and husband use the same vehicle for tax deductible travel, each of us travel approx 4000kms. Are we both able to make a claim at d1?"

By: Ang on Mar 08, 2016 6:21AM

"Sure can. Just need to demonstrate that you both incur cost of running vehicle & of course justify your reasonable estimate of travel (ie be precise & not a round figure such as 4000km)"

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 08, 2016 9:10PM

"I Brought my car at the end of a lease do i need to renew the rego as business or can it be personal? i claim over 80% usage via a logbook?"

By: Adam on Mar 10, 2016 2:08AM

"Check with your relevant state as to their definitions but I would register as business use."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 13, 2016 7:19AM

"I looking at buying a ute to use just for work. I would like to be able to use the cents per KM method, however I am a bit unclear on if this can apply to a ute. Am i right in understanding that if I have a falcon ute with a 1100kg payload i can't use cents per KM, but if I buy a ute with say 750kg payload I can use it?"

By: Jim on Mar 11, 2016 1:34AM

"You can use the cents per kilometre method regardless of the size, but you will find that the logbook method would work best for vehicles over 1 tonne (1000kg) as you can claim 100% business use as a commercial vehicle."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 13, 2016 7:22AM

"I am living oversea with my baby without . If I fly back to Australia to inspect my investment property, can I claim my baby's airfare? I have no other choice but bring the baby with me."

By: Le on Mar 16, 2016 3:39PM

"You definitely cannot claim your child's airfare."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 20, 2016 6:17PM

"hi i work out at the mines, i travel from mackay too dysart every week in my own car, the company is located in rockhampton, can i claim the 259km one way too and from the mines?"

By: neil on Mar 23, 2016 8:38AM

"Unfortunately not Neil. The taxman considers travel to & from work - regardless of the distance - to be non-deductible."

By: Mr Taxman on Apr 09, 2016 3:36PM

"Hi, I work as disability worker. I travel between two jobs 3 times a week or sometimes even more. Can i claim business kms and other car related expenses i.e. items D1 and D2"

By: Aru on Apr 19, 2016 7:25AM

"Yes you can claim them in D1 but make sure that you keep a logbook of your travel for at least 12 weeks & all receipts for running your car for the whole year."

By: Mr Taxman on May 21, 2016 12:52PM

"Would carrying a doctors bag be considered bulky equipment to claim travel to and from work?"

By: Craig on May 17, 2016 10:35AM

"I don't know how big a doctor's bag is but probably not. Would need to be around 20kg & you have no way of being able to store the items at work securely each night."

By: Mr Taxman on May 21, 2016 12:53PM

"Hi, I work as a ambassador sampling products. I am required to transport bulky equiptment (stand, kitchen appliances and consumables) in my car from location to location. My car is the family car which I borrow for work. The ATO website says I can claim direct costs of petrol but does not state how I can calculate this. How would I go about calculating this?"

By: Saffire on May 18, 2016 12:09AM

"Keep all your receipt for the year for petrol plus other car running costs (eg repairs, rego, insurance, servicing, etc) and then keep a logbook for 12 weeks - which you can get from a newsagent or a funky app (there is an app for everything these days it seems!) - to calculate your work-related % use & use that percentage to claim work-related car travel in D1 in your tax return."

By: Mr Taxman on May 21, 2016 12:55PM

"Hey Mr Taxman, I'm an apprentice electrician and I live 70kms away from my usual place of work (140km round trip) 5 days a week (700km per week). I am required to take all of my tools, harnesses and equipment (about 30-50kgs) in my ute as there is no secure lock up for my tools at work. All up I'll travel around 35,000kms over the year...what am I able to claim for my ute? I have kept logbooks showing my 700km weeks for about 16 weeks. Help!?"

By: Scott on May 18, 2016 10:57AM

"The car travel certainly adds up. THis is one of the rare cases where the ATO allows travel between home & work each day https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Income-and-deductions/In-detail/Deductions-for-specific-industries-and-occupations/Building-and-construction-employees---claiming-work-related-expenses/?page=10 I hope you keep all your receipts for your ute for the whole year - petrol, rego, insurance, repairs, servicing plus any finance. You logbook percentage will be close to 100% so the majority of these expenses - plus depreciation of the ute - can be claimed in D1 in your tax return. Good luck with the rest of your apprenticeship."

By: Mr Taxman on May 21, 2016 12:59PM

"Hi I am a service engineer my company supply me with a car that I get taxed on and they have now introduced that we claim back business miles. My place of work is classed from my home now I often get asked to go to the office and collect parts i live 2 miles away but on the odd occasion I drop my daughter at school this makes my journey 3 miles. Now they tell me that this is classed as private millage is this correct "

By: Dan on May 23, 2016 7:47PM

"The issue is whether you travel to work ... or travel for work ... sounds like the latter except for when you drop your daughter off to school as that is private travel"

By: Mr Taxman on May 26, 2016 1:28AM

"As a casual employee I was originally employed to work at site A. Due to changes of staff I am now required to also work at site B, can I claim the mileage between the two site? I pass site A to get to site B. Site A is 20kms from home, site B is an additional 30kms (total 50kms). It is likely that most of the upcoming work will be at site B, which I never intended to work at or want to work at."

By: Craig Elphick on May 24, 2016 12:39AM

"If you are going staright to Site B from home (despite going past site A), this would be considered private travel & not deductible. If however you stop off at Site A from time to time, then the travel between A & B would be claimable."

By: Mr Taxman on May 26, 2016 1:29AM

"OK thanks, yes I call in there going to and from, but not every shift maybe twice a set of shifts. I also carry a large bag with emergency response turnout gear. Big Duffle type bag. Being a contractor no room to leave at wiork as on shared lockers or at second site only small lockers. Bag container Level 2 Fire Fighting Jacket/Pants, Boots, Helmet, Asst Gloves, Flashhoods, Level 1 Fire Overalls etc. Would this count as carrying bulky goods for work purposes? Have never really claimed this before but take everywhere. I usually only claim work travel to abnormal work places. Also if I volunteer at events like WASCC motor racing events can I claim for volunteer activities? Thanks"

By: Craig Elphick on May 31, 2016 5:15PM

"You couldn't claim for the volunteer activities unfortunately - it is a rule change I would like to see made though. As for the bulky gear, it would need to be something that you couldn't catch public transport with (eg 20kg, big, bulky) & that you genuinely have nowhere secure to store each day."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 06, 2016 11:36PM

"Thanks for that, bag is well in excess of 20kg and often more like 30kg. No public transport anywhere near either. While I could leave it on site there is nowhere to lock it up securely and anyone could have easy access to it. Cheers Craig"

By: Craig Elphick on Jun 08, 2016 4:00PM

"Hi, I'm a sole trader with a home business and claim the logbook method for vehicle use. I am in the middle of recording 12 weeks travel and am wondering if the kilometres in taking the car to the mechanics for a service are considered business or private for logbook purposes?"

By: Tom on May 28, 2016 8:56AM

"I would consider to be private but I doubt if that short trip will make much of a difference over a 12 week period."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 06, 2016 11:33PM

"Hi there Just wondering what portion of my tolls I can claim. Is it ok to claim all of my tolls utilised to travel to and from work?"

By: Candice on Jun 03, 2016 10:53PM

"Travel to/from work is not deductible at all. You can only claim tolls (and related car travel) if you are travelling for work during the middle of the day (ie going between the office & visiting clients)."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 06, 2016 11:32PM

"Hi could you advise if could claim mileage from home work training venue and return. Training was not located at normal work address and transport not provided by the company. We also have a large uitility best that we have to take home each night as it cannot be stored at work, can this and the mileage be claimed. Thanks"

By: michael on Jun 06, 2016 12:51PM

"Not quite sure what a 'large utility best' is but it needs to be bulky, over 20kg & something that cannot be stored securely at work each day."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 06, 2016 11:47PM

"I am a casual relieving teacher employed by an agency travel different schools each week what can I claim in expenses"

By: PM on Jun 10, 2016 1:31AM

"Not much you can claim as you are really just travelling from home to work each day, albeit at a different location each week."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2016 9:44AM

"I work for a Electrical Contractor based at Eagle Farm in Brisbane, and travel up to 300km every day to various work sites. We are generally based at each site from one week upto a month. Can I claim car allowance? Cheers Ian"

By: Ian on Jun 12, 2016 9:31AM

"If you are merely travelling from home to work then no claim, only the travel between sites could you potentially claim."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2016 9:45AM

"Hi there, looking for clarification around itinerant work please. I'm in a new role, relief bank officer/manager, I have no permanent branch, I leave from home everyday to a new location. I find out what branch to attend the day before hand via phone/email. I could be at a branch for one day or a week and even then it can change depending on what branch needed me more that day. i cover a particular region that has 16 branches of different distances, Am I an itinerant worker? Thanks "

By: Jess on Jun 14, 2016 2:04PM

"Suggest you have a read of Taxation Ruling 95/34. http://law.ato.gov.au/atolaw/view.htm?Docid=TXR/TR9534/NAT/ATO/00001 I doubt that you would qualify as an 'itinerant worker'"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2016 9:48AM

"Hi I receive a CA of 15k pa as a project/site manager, I carry bulky tools (300 to 600kg) regularly attend different sites but also may do site work where I travel from work supplied accomodation to a construction site for two to three week periods, my employer has requested I purchase a fixed mounted tool box arrangement for my ute (I.e. The entire tray shall be removed and replaced with a tool box arrangement) where this would now be fixed and unable to be removed can I claim travelling to and from home? "

By: Matt on Jun 17, 2016 10:38PM

"Sounds like you would be able to claim that travel - use the logbook method though as the maximum is 5000km via the cents per kilometre method. The new tool box would be depreciable in your return."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2016 9:50AM

"Hi, I am in a management role and head office is in the city. This is the location on my employment contract. We have a project in a regional centre that I travel to and stay over 2 or 3 nights a week. Work pay me for each km traveled from home to the regional centre and back home. They also pay for accomodation. I do not really carry anything other than reports etc. Would you class my travel as work related and the cost of my car expenses deductible? "

By: Mick on Jun 18, 2016 10:06AM

"Which is the better option? My company is happy to pay.80 cents /km even with the legislation now of .66 cents. I understand that the differnce will be taxed at 30%.I have been given the opportunity to consider a $10,000 motor vehicle allowance . year to date my kms reimbursmenet amounted to $6500. I average about 300 to 350 kms per pay. With the motor vehicle allowance I will receive a payment of $385 per pay. I just want to know which option is better for me considering tax and claims. I currently earn $65,000 gross. If you could direct me or provide some further insight it would be appreciated. it seems much of a muchness to me."

By: claudia on Jun 23, 2016 4:38AM

"I would take the $10k allowance & claim your car expenses via the logbook method. Yes you get more money & have to pay more tax but you will have more in your bank account at the end of the year."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2016 9:54AM

"Is it possible to claim parking fees when travelling from a university institution to a workplace in the city? I was attending university before accepting a new job. "

By: Sophia on Jun 29, 2016 6:11AM

"If your uni study is related to your work then you could possible claim."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2016 9:56AM

"Hi, I am wondering if I can claim the excess I had to pay for an accident that I had in a company vehicle during work hours?"

By: John on Jul 03, 2016 6:00AM

"No but your employer should make an adjustment for FBT calculations based on your contribution to the running of the company vehicle."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2016 9:58AM

"Hi, I am employed as a sub contractor and I am supplied with a work ute to carry around ladders, tools and stock to do my job. I travel to 2-7 job sites per day. Can I claim all of the receipts I have kept for the fuel I have purchased on my debit card for my work vehicle that was supplied to me?"

By: Brett on Jul 05, 2016 10:05AM

"By all means but only via the logbook method, which should be mighty close to 100%. I am more concerned that you receive a work vehicle as a sub-contractor & you may want to check if you are really an employee & entitled to more benefits from them."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2016 9:59AM

"I am a casual research assistant working for a major university. I conduct some of the work from home but need to attend the uni at two of its campuses from time to time. Am I able to claim a) travel expenses and/or b) parking fees"

By: Lisa on Jul 07, 2016 7:06AM

"No you wouldn't be able to claim as this would be considered travel to/from work."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2016 10:00AM

"I am a medical sales rep and do have my 12 week log book and receipts for repairs, servicing etc. I know I can claim depreciation on car but can I claim my loan repayments for the car? I did have a company car but they phased that our and I was forced to purchase a car to be able to do my job. It was $35k so under the luxury limit. I get a car allowance which is taxed."

By: lyn on Jul 10, 2016 2:35AM

"If it is a loan, then you can only claim the interest portion not the principal amounts. If it is a lease then you would be able to claim the whole amount (but then there would be no depreciation to claim). "

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 10, 2016 10:02AM

"Hi there, I have a paid job in a part time capacity. I am also considering starting a voluntary driving service for the local school for parents who are unable to drive thier kids to and from school. If I kept a log book and all records can I claim car related expenses and depreciation of the car from the tax I lodge from my part time job. I am not charging parents/guardians for the voluntary service. Regards Mel "

By: Mel on Jul 10, 2016 11:25AM

"sounds like a great service but unfortunately as you are not deriving any assessable income, you cannot claim this travel. It is one of my bugbears that people can be lazy & write out a cheque for $1000 & get a tax deduction yet someone like you who devotes countless hours & incurs $1000 of personal cost to help a charity cannot claim a cent. First rule if I ever was to run!"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 11, 2016 2:53AM

"Hi there, I'm an automotive spray painter and I take my sprayguns home with me everyday as I've nowhere to lock them up in the workshop, can I claim travel to and from work? "

By: Tom Richards on Jul 10, 2016 6:59PM

"If they could be classified as bulky (litmus test is more than 20kg) then you probably could claim although I am surprised that there would be nowhere secure to store your gear."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 11, 2016 2:50AM

"I work in the office of a security company. Once a week i may need to move customer keys/remotes/fobs etc between our company offices using my personal vehicle. Would the kilometres travelled be classified as business kilometres?"

By: Richie B on Jul 11, 2016 2:27AM

"Yes that would be considered legitimate travel for work purposes."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 11, 2016 2:51AM

"I work as a Coal train driver Hunter Valley, and have to carry bulky goods for work i.e Wet weather gear, Hard Hat, flash light, Diary, route knowledge books and policy procedure books. Place of employment has two sign on locations. Both locations have limited secure storage available, more employees then lockers. As i don't know what location i will be signing on at until the afternoon before my next shift. I can not leave my work gear at the last sign off location i have to take it home. Am I entitled to claim travel from home to work?"

By: Robert on Jul 12, 2016 5:26AM

"If my company reimburses more than the 66c per kilometre rate, does the difference have to be declared as income on my tax return?"

By: Jo on Jul 12, 2016 6:27AM

"I am currently keeping a log book for my business associated travel, do I need to also log my personal travel kms? I thought that anything outside the logged business kms could be assumed to be personal kms... is that correct? "

By: Rebecca on Jul 13, 2016 5:56AM

"I have done transfers for clients in my company car. One client required a child seat for transfer so I used a personal seat for this. Can I claim the whole or a percentage of the cost of the car seat?"

By: Christopher on Jul 14, 2016 12:36PM

"I got a flat tyre at my works carpark and had to pay to get it repaired. Is this covered?"

By: Raymond on Jul 14, 2016 10:00PM

"Hi i had to move from bundaberg qld to Deniliquin NSW to take up a new position am i able to claim those kms thank you"

By: Stacey on Jul 16, 2016 4:59AM

"Hi. I'm starting a new job as a community support worker. I have to travel from home to first client's house, then spend day travelling between clients homes and home again at the end of shift. The company pays me for the kilometres travelled between clients, but not for home to first client, or last client to home. Can i claim those km's on my tax as an itinerant worker? Thank you. "

By: Wendy on Jul 18, 2016 1:06PM

"Hi Mr Taxman, thanks for doing a great job answering our queries since 2011! I'm currently working as a disability support worker. Part of my job is to drive my clients around. I get paid by my employer for mileage at $0.70 per km. This is a very silly question but I just wasn't sure, can I still claim the mileage/petrol as tax deduction even though I get reimbursed for it by the company? I kept the mileage record. Thanks."

By: Alek on Jul 18, 2016 9:39PM

"My husband and I are both health professionals and do some work from home as sole traders - separate, not as partners - he sub-contacts to one company and I to another - we both use our one private car to travel to visit clients. when calculating the percentage of work to private use do I include his work kms in the total or only the private kms. Also I am sessionally employed by a university to tutor at the uni site- all the preparation of the tutorials and staff meetings are done at home on my own computer and phone before I go to the tutorials (though not all on the day of the tutorial). Can I count those trips as work related or not?"

By: Roslyn Davis on Jul 21, 2016 1:38AM

"I receive atravel allowance rolled into my gross (not shown on PAYG) This is part of my EBA. I drive to & from work only. Some of the other boys say their accountant is claiming ALL their milage as a deduction (no logbook) Is this right?"

By: Kaz on Jul 26, 2016 10:30AM

"Hi, I am starting a new job on a farm with the same employment agency. Is it considering as the same employer? Can I claim travel expenses as a tax deduction? Thanks"

By: Oceane on Jul 28, 2016 11:41AM

"What about the situation where on your way to work, you pick up several co-workers as they don't have licenses. This is part of your job description. Claimable?"

By: Naomi on Aug 04, 2016 4:28AM

"Hi, I am wondering if I can claim up to 5000km under business kms for work (as I travel between work places) but can I also claim up to 5000kms under the study/uni travel that I do which is work related (and approved study)? great job too btw"

By: sarah on Aug 05, 2016 1:25AM

"Hi, what happens if my parents started paying for my car expenses which are originally deductible for work purposes? "

By: Amanda on Aug 09, 2016 8:21AM

"Can i claim travel if I am using my car to attend a meeting where i have left from home to attend rather then from my office. even if this meeting is on a similar route that I would drive to get to my office."

By: Tracey on Aug 10, 2016 12:00AM

"Hi, I live in Perth but flew to Sydney in November for an (unsuccessful) interview - can I claim the airfare and Sydney trains as a deduction?"

By: Gavin on Aug 11, 2016 4:09AM

"Unfortunately you cannot claim for travel in relation to interviews."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 02, 2020 9:26PM

"Hello, just wondering if i can claim business kms travelled from home to pick up business stock and staff amenities for my boss not on the way to work. I.e. I would drive in on my day off?"

By: Lucy on Aug 14, 2016 3:28AM

"hello , just wondering if i can claim business kms travelling from home to various job sites throughout out the day carrying my tools and ladders while using my ABN . i have kept a log book as well ."

By: vaughan on Aug 16, 2016 11:08PM

"You probably can Vaughan as I assume you need to use the bulky tools throughout the day& your original place of business is probably at home."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 02, 2020 9:28PM

"Hi, i am a full time employee for an Importing company. I maintain some of our smaller customers. On my way to work I would go to a customer (or two) to take the order (as a sales person). When I finish work, I would deliver this small order with my car and then go home. Can I claim car related expenses for home-customer-work and work-customer-home or just customer-work and work-customer? Also does it make a difference that in the morning I go to take an order (not carrying anything)? I also sometimes on my way to work (whn not visiting customers) stop at Officeworks to buy paper, clips, pens, tape, etc. Can I claim car expenses for that? Thank you"

By: Vlad on Sep 06, 2016 12:36PM

"Hi Mr Taxman. I have a job where my employer requires me to work in Town A for a week (where I am renting a small apartment) and then work in the city (400km away) for a week in various branches on different days. Am I able to make a travel claim for going between Town A and City?"

By: Jess on Oct 13, 2016 4:33AM

"hi - i am self employed as a sole trader with an office / studio at home - can i claim car travel to and from meetings? my work requires me to carry large pieces of equipment"

By: hammer on Oct 19, 2016 12:58AM

"Hi Mr Tax Man, I am cabin crew that does a lot of overnights.Can I claim travelling to and from work with a heavy bag? Sometimes I'm away for 3 nights. I'm domestic but also do short haul international. Thanks "

By: Sarah on Oct 28, 2016 3:29AM

"Hi Taxman If I enrolled in a course and paid fees on 30th june 2016 for which started earning from 1st week of july. Can i claim that as part of self education as it required me to have been enrolled before i can start work and study along with while i can work. If I may be able to claim will it be for 2016 or 2017 year. Thanks for help"

By: Kevin on Dec 16, 2016 7:56AM

"I am a rep using my personal vehicle for business during working hours, I am given fuel through a fleet card although wear/tear and tyres etc. will be my responsibility. What can I claim?"

By: Eddie Dabrowski on Jan 10, 2017 12:38AM

"My Employer allow me to take Company car home. So I am using this car every day to take it to office and coming back home. Do I have to declare to ATO in tax return for this private use or it is my employer's responsibiity"

By: Danny on Feb 01, 2017 11:41AM

"I have an 11 month contract that is 126 km away and incurs tolls. Can I claim for travel expenses?"

By: Jaimme on Feb 13, 2017 11:53PM

"Hi, I have a car that I use for business purposes(maintain a log). Car was was purchased under Hire Purchase Chattel Mortgage. My question is are the lease payments deductible or is it only the interest on loan that is deductible?"

By: Mark Ridley on Feb 17, 2017 2:35AM

"Hi I am a cleaner and I work a fortnightly roster in peoples homes which has some changes especially if people need to move there day/time. I have a home office where I download/upload my paper work and do training courses. They say we have a 2 hour break in the middle of the day, which they call a morning/afternoon shift. Can I claim travel from home to the work place. Can I claim the travel from home to work between morning and afternoon shift. "

By: Sharon Cresdee on Feb 19, 2017 1:20AM

"Hi Mr Taxman, I work a 9 days on 5 off roster and am DIDO. While on my 9 days at work I stay at a company camp ~ 15km from the actual worksite, and I am required to travel in my own vehicle back and forth each day (I travel from camp to work then from work to camp once a day). Can I claim this travel from the two company sites on my tax, or is the company camp classified as "home"? Cheers"

By: Tom on Mar 05, 2017 10:54PM

"Hello Mr Taxman, I work 4 days a week and look after multiple sites. 4 days a week I use my car to travel between sites and to carry stock around. I am going to claim cents per litre, is this the only car expense I can claim? What about petrol, rego, insurance, and depreciation? I drive a Audi Q5. Thanks."

By: Maria on Jul 01, 2017 8:52AM

"Hi - I'm an employee - apprentice carpenter - taking tools everywhere - in a ute owned by myself that I purchased because of the job. Can I claim the cost of the ute, as well as the usual car related expenses (log book method)?"

By: Anna on Jul 03, 2017 11:13AM

"Thank you for your great site and support. I just wanted to please know I run a mobile tech computer repair business from my home. My room is my office as well as my garage, if I do my logbook for the months and get my percentage which is high as I mainly use the car for work (lancer 2011) as I mainly use my motor bike for personal use. What happens if I use the car for personal outside of the three months once I have my percentage and logbook done? Also what happens if I got another job on the side while I'm still running my business. Does my logbook still apply if I use the car? Thank you"

By: Christopher on Jul 05, 2017 3:13AM

"buy secured car loan r personal car loan to claim tax for second which uses car as business"

By: selvam mudaliar on Jul 05, 2017 3:49AM

"i am a sole trader can i claim parking fees or its already included in cents per km method i will use "

By: augustine sami on Jul 06, 2017 4:56AM

"I had a full time job that went into the beginning of the financial year from July 2016 into February 2017 I am now at university doing part time work at the same place am I able to claim travel for travelling from university back home to work? "

By: williamb on Jul 13, 2017 4:41AM

"I regularly fly for work purposes and often will have to drive from the office to the airport which is 12km away. Can this portion of my day be claimed? On some occasions I travel directly between my home and the airport. Would this be treated differently?"

By: elawrence on Jul 14, 2017 3:41AM

"Wow, you've replied to so many people. I wish I could repay you in some way. Hugely appreciate you taking so much time to help unknowns. I work full-time, and study part-time. I travel from my work place to go to the Uni in the evening, from where I travel to home. May I claim any leg of this journey as tax deductible? Regards."

By: Gaurav on Jul 20, 2017 7:23AM

"I pay child support to my children's mother. Am I eligible to claim toll fees, sporting parking fees whilst they are in my care? Sometimes I pay registration fees for their sports which involve travel and away accomodation for them as well to help out their mother. She earns double what I earn and gets government assistance as she has 70% custody."

By: Chris on Jul 22, 2017 1:51AM

"Hi Adrian, Thank you for your book 101 ways to save money on your tax. It's very readable and well explained. Can I ask with direct care workers whose work is to visit clients in their home, can they claim vehicle maintenance such as registration, servicing etc or a percentage of these costs? Thanks, Aneeta"

By: Aneeta Krishna on Jul 25, 2017 7:43AM

"Hello. My son is an electrician and I'll be doing his tax. He has a work car which he uses as he carries his tools. He might be at one job site for a couple of weeks, another site for a month or so and then other times different sites each day. He doesn't keep a record of how many kms he does. Can he claim 5000km method? Thanks."

By: Martina on Jul 30, 2017 7:39AM

"Hi Mr Taxman, my company allows claims on mileage. But I'm wondering if it's better to claim the whole lot at tax time via logbook method instead of claiming it through my company? Thanks in advance."

By: Jac on Jul 31, 2017 7:06AM

"Hi, not sure if this is travel or vehicle expenses..... Home is in town A - employer is located in town A (but I rarely work there). Get seconded for 12 months to town B (120km away) and other locations (>120km away). In all instances, employer provides accommodation (4 days to 2 weeks at a time)(and meals at some) away from town A. Employer pays a taxable Vehicle allowance. Can I claim for travel from home to town B or C etc? Or is that home to work travel? Is there a maximum/minimum distance from home to work - before its consider work travel? thanks"

By: Jason on Aug 04, 2017 4:04AM

"Hi, I drive freight trains for a living which requires me to stay in different towns in between shifts whilst waiting for a train to drive home. This being the case I am expected to carry all my paperwork, safety gear, food, clothing, personal items etc with me to different barracks locations across the state. Does this make me an itinerant worker due to the fact that I do not sign off in the same place that I start my shift and am required to carry all the gear to and from home?"

By: Chris on Aug 30, 2017 4:31AM

"Hi, I moved to Australia in Feb 2016 and settled in Sydney. In July i got job in Newcastle but could not move there with family so opted the option of acquiring a temporary accommodation and going to Newcastle on Monday morning and coming back to Sydney (home) on Friday evening. Vehicle allowance and fuel expense are paid by the company. I traveled around 25000 km in one year. Can i claim my trip to Sydney to Newcastle and vice versa as work travel or no ? I used to carry tool box and safety gear for site usage with me."

By: Syed Sajjad Raza on Sep 23, 2017 2:37AM

"The company i work for pays me a kilometer rate for using my car as im a photographer and they send me to different sites across sydney - what is the kilometre rate they should pay me>"

By: LISA on Oct 24, 2017 7:39AM

"I have had a fully maintained vehicle for over 20 years in all previous jobs. This is my first job with a $10k car allowance. I had to buy a vehicle, register it, insure and now pay fuel every week. My car is solely used to go to and from work and see customers. Is this seen as 100% business use? After business hours and on weekends we use our family car. Is the 10K meant to be paid to me tax free from my employer each fortnight and I pay tax in my tax return at the end of the financial year if I did not use all of the 10K? Thanks."

By: Rebecca on Oct 25, 2017 10:15AM

"Hi, I have a work vehicle that is allocated to me for my role as I travel across Victoria and work from home. I have no parking at my premises - I live central Hawthorn and am surrounded by 2 hour parking, and so I need to pay to park my work vehicle in local parking that I am renting. Am I able to claim the parking costs as a tax deduction? My work will not pay for the parking, but I have no say in having the work vehicle. I also have to use the work vehicle for storage as I have to distribute products. The car is not used for personal use, just work. Thanks "

By: Cassie on Nov 16, 2017 7:07AM

"Hi, I would like to ask about the toll expense. Can we claim the gst back when we do quarter BAS? Thank you "

By: Tommy on Nov 23, 2017 5:33AM

"You sure can Tommy pending the business v personal basis of your respective trips. "

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 02, 2020 9:24PM

"Hi. I am a care worker and most of the time I drive my own vehicle due to there not veing enough company vehicles. I have to carry ppe and a first aid kit with me. I don't need to go to the office before my first client or after my last unless there is a special reason to. I travel around 100 ks a day between home and all my clients and then home again. Can I claim travel from my home to my first client and travel from my last client to my home?"

By: Danni on Dec 11, 2017 2:32AM

"my husband has several service related disabilities on being his back, we recently purchase him a very nice car and one of the features was the massage features as well as the enhance lumbar support which is a blessing as he is stuck in traffic up to 1.5 hours twice a day to/fro work. Would any of our recent car purchase be tax deductible as he normally can't sit for more than 20 minutes without having to move around."

By: lisa on Dec 30, 2017 1:37AM

"I work as a Landscape Labourer ad travel from the Sunshine Coast to Brisbane most days during the week, however sometimes I am sent to different sites during the same day. From the city to Bribie, from there to Beerwah, from there to Cooroy. What exactly can I claim? I'm driving around all day. I get $88 a week travel allowance, which is paid with my wages. I never get paid for any of the hours that I drive, is that legal? I only get paid for the hours physically worked on site. What do i need to do when i put in my tax for this year? many thanks."

By: Eli Rowe on Jan 23, 2018 1:32PM

"I had a contract to work at a mine site some 1100ks from my house in Cairns for 6 months. Contract required me to live local. I worked 9 days on 5 off. Can I claim any milage for travel between the two towns given I had to leave wife behind in house as there was no certainty of employment continuing."

By: Mark on Jan 26, 2018 2:43AM

"Hi mr taxman As I have not been over here in wa long and keep being told claim this claim that I would like to know what I can claim ok so I’m full time employed as a carpenter and need to carry my own tools around daily from job to job . What can I claim can I claim (parking ,fuel ,washing clothes ect) Kind regards Chris "

By: Chris on Jan 30, 2018 10:15PM

"Hi- I have been using a hire car for work purposes only as I do no have a car and I do not use it for private use. My employer does not give a car allowance but specify that travel is required as part of my role. I regularly visit multiple sites and offices for meetings outside of my base office and my employer allows me to claim a portion of this through their expenses as KMs. Can I claim for the hire car costs as a direct deduction or will it just be the KMs that I can claim? Cheers!"

By: jodie on Feb 01, 2018 1:20AM

"I work as a carer for aged cares and I work for an agency. Can I claim petrol expenses for the travel. The agency calls daily for shifts"

By: Baisil Mathew on Mar 03, 2018 12:05PM

"Hello, Am I able to claim work related car expenses using the cents per kilometre method for work use of my wife car? i.e. driving to meetings and picking up parts etc. The car was purchased by her before we got married and is still registered in her name."

By: Nate on Mar 06, 2018 7:01AM

"Hi, I started a new job with a car company. They provide me with a motor vehicle that I have to test drive in my own personal time for a few weeks at a time and provide them with feedback. They do not provide any compensation in the way of petrol. Am I able to claim the petrol that I use? Even if the km's are all of a private nature?"

By: Bicky on Mar 07, 2018 2:46AM

"I m using my wife car for Uber Paying weekly rent to her can I claim that as expense."

By: Chaitali Patel on Mar 26, 2018 1:24AM

"If I bought a car, and the car was financed under a hire-purchase agreement over four years, am I able to claim the establishment fee and administration fee charged per repayment? I know that I am able to claim depreciation and interest but not sure about the administration fee and establishment fee. I assume that are not considered borrowing expenses..."

By: Ramona on Apr 12, 2018 9:51AM

"My wife owns the car but i use for work purpose. Can i use cents per km to claim as a tax deduction. "

By: Shelvin on Apr 21, 2018 9:56AM

"if I am a partner and supplied a car by the partnership. May I claim the expenses I paid for such as fuel and insurance ? "

By: sarah on Apr 26, 2018 5:12AM

"Hello if my husband as a ceo of a company ( not for profit). And receives a car allowance are we still able to claim kms as he does so much driving. In his own car Thanking you in advance "

By: Alicia on May 27, 2018 7:21AM

"I am a support worker and need to use my own car, how much depreciation happens over a year that l can claim"

By: Ria Baker on Jun 12, 2018 6:35AM

"my son (apprentice) uses his car to run errands during the work day to the tip, pick up parts, drop things off etc. His employer pays his petrol bill. can he claim his km's , rego and car lease repayments ? would this still be the same 0.66c calculation up to 5000kms?? "

By: liddy on Jun 27, 2018 11:54PM

"Hi there, I am a sole trader with a van used 100% for the business. can i use cents/km method? if so, is that inclusive of all my motor vehicle expenses? Also, can I simply read the odometer at the start and end of year, rather than recording each trip? If I use the other method, do I just keep all petrol, insurance, repairs, etc receipts and claim those, thereby not needing to state how many kms I've travelled? please help, ATO was useless at answering this question!"

By: Bel on Jun 28, 2018 7:12AM

"Hi there, My husband has a work supplied vehicle that he is required to park at home and as a result has to pay $25 in tolls each day. He transports tools used as part of work in the vehicle. Work pays all costs of vehicle except tolls. Can he claim the tolls if he transports tools and goods including fire panels and spare parts. He is a fire systems engineer."

By: Nadine on Jul 12, 2018 12:33AM

"Hi I work as a traffic controller and I use my own vehicle, I all way's get a text from my employment office of where I will need to be the next day. never the same place twice unless i'm lucky. I use google maps to locate my job locations and thus tells me how many km's ill be doing I never delete a text as it shows where im needed and the job locations is from my home. can I claim mileage from home to work from work to home as work is not in the same place every day. thanks kind regards Nicholas.p"

By: nicholas p on Jul 14, 2018 4:20AM

"Hi, I work as a consultant an often visit a number of different offices. I drive to the train station and catch the train to the client office/s. Am I able to claim the car trip or just the train trip (Assuming I drive to the same station whether travelling to a client or my own office.)"

By: JB on Jul 30, 2018 1:46AM

"I have just started a new job 2 & 1/2 hours away from home. I will need to rent a small flat for Mon-Fri for work then return home for weekends. Can I claim my living expenses during the week as LAFHA?"

By: TB on Aug 29, 2018 10:43PM

"I just recently got called into work for a meeting after my shift finished.. am I able to claim km from my last point of work to where the meeting is through my employer? "

By: Melin on Sep 12, 2018 2:01AM

"Hello, I was payed a reimbursement for fuel (mostly for personal use). The company did not treat it as an FBT payment, ie no return covered this payment. And it is not included in my PAYG statement. How should I treat the payment."

By: Phil Edwards on Nov 04, 2018 9:48AM

""I am having trouble working out How I claim for car expenses online. I don't understand where I enter the information. I have logbook.. I am a builder employed under wages and travel 1250kms a week.for work. How do I claim this and my other car deductions, Rego, insurance repairs etc?""

By: Brian Eveleigh on Nov 05, 2018 10:19AM

"I work as a coach where I need my own ABN. Our location changes each week in which I have to travel to, can I claim these kms "

By: Grace on Jan 31, 2019 1:41PM

"My work is mandatory placement for my university degree, and is unpaid. For the duration of it I am to drive from home to work then drive out to different locations throughout the day before returning to the main office at the end of the day. "

By: Hannah A on Apr 01, 2019 9:44AM

"I am quitting my full time job and moving from QLD to WA to be nearer unwell family. I have recently started a handyman sole trader business which I intend to continue as my full time occupation in WA, am I able to claim any shipping costs for relocating the business. ie tools, vehicle, office ."

By: Bo on May 14, 2019 11:32AM

"I am being given a work car from 2014 and the head unit in the car is just standard. If I wanted to upgrade the head unit to have Car Play/GPS, would I be able to claim that, as I will need it when travelling to sites and the car technically isn't mine."

By: Jakob on May 29, 2019 5:23AM

"I would like to know why companies think .78c/km is adequate to cover fuel/maintenance/rego costs. Even more importance, when disabled clients damage your vehicle and premiums keep increasing..this is surely not just? Please let me know if this right."

By: gail on Jun 18, 2019 9:40AM

"Hi mr tax man. I am a Merchandiser and travel just over 5000 kms for work. I carry all my work gear in my car and go from store to store each day. I am not sure as to what I can claim for my vehicle. Am I best to claim kms, it works out that I use my car 75% for work. I don’t know if I can claim my maintenance, insurance, my car is a 2011 model so I don’t think I can claim depreciation "

By: Beck on Jun 21, 2019 6:56AM

"Admittedly not too much depreciation with a 2011 car but there will still be a few $$$ there still. My motto is that you would pick up $20 if it was on the ground so why not claim it in your tax return! You could claim 75% of all running costs including the repairs, servicing, rego, insurance, CTP and petrol."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 04, 2020 8:59PM

"Hi Mr Taxman. I do a 15 hour shift at my workplace (a private home) as a carer but I do not sleep. Would this be considered 'overnight travel ' for tax purposes? I wanted to claim the costs of meals I purchase as I am not able to leave work."

By: Rose Dee on Jun 22, 2019 7:08PM

"Geez 15 hours is a long shift. I certainly hope you get some breaks during the week. Generally, meals are considered a private expense. You can only claim a deduction for meals when you receive an overtime meal allowance and you are travelling away overnight for work where you can claim up to the reasonable allowance expense amount. To be eligible to claim a work-related deduction: * the employee must have spent the money themselves and weren't reimbursed * it must directly relate to earning their income * they must have a record to prove it. "

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 04, 2020 8:48PM

"I work two jobs. One pays me for travel as an allowance and I have just clocked over 5,000kms. The second job I use my car for business purposes but don't get reimbursed and have around $1200 using the cents per KM method. Can I stil use this $120 0as a deduction even though I have gone over the 5,000km with the job that pays me the allowance?"

By: Matt on Jun 25, 2019 2:39AM

"Hi, 3 days a week I use my own car to do the banking, mail & to get supplies for the staff and office. I do not get compensated from my workplace. Can I Claim this travel? Also sometimes I go to the post office on my way home to post mail that was missed during the day and needs to be sent that day. Can this be claimed or do I have to exclude this as it was on my way home. I work as a bookkeeper/ office manager Thank you"

By: Jackie on Jun 28, 2019 2:19AM

"Is this factored in to the Tax Calculator? https://www.icalculator.info/australia.html"

By: P Starmer on Jun 28, 2019 8:12AM

"Hi mr taxman My question is about living away from home for work. I’m a plumber and I live away from home 6 days a week for work My accommodation is supplied but everything else I need to pay for. I travel every Monday 160km to work and 26km to accomodation in afternoon. Then I travel 52km every day til Saturday where I travel 160km home. I carry tools every day and there is no public transport to site What is detectable in this scenario? Cheers "

By: Murray on Jul 05, 2019 7:40AM

"Can you lock up your bulky tools on site each day? If not then the 26km each way between accommodation could be claimed. Note that the tools must be bulky & not a hammer & a screwdriver!"

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 04, 2020 8:42PM

"I have a brought a brand new Toyota hilux sr5 in 2016.. I claim the car 100% for work use as I carry tools and soley own use for work purposes.. what is the deminishing value of the car per year?? Thanks"

By: Mark on Aug 20, 2019 12:07PM

"The diminishing rate is 25% per annum based on the opening written down value of the car at the start of each year. For example, you buy a vehicle of $40,000 (lets say on July 1 for ease). In the first year your depreciation is $40,000 x 25% = $10,000 (and the written down value of the car becomes $30,000). In the second year, the depreciation will be $30,000 x 25% = $7500 (WDV is now $22,500) etc etc "

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 04, 2020 8:39PM

"Hi, I am a doctor and I am contracted to work at Hospital "A". I however rotate every 10 weeks in different hospitals for my work (say Hospital "B" a few months ago). Am I able to claim car travel expenses from the distance between Hospital A and Hospital B, if I drive to work everyday from my home to Hospital B and back home?"

By: Sam on Oct 30, 2019 5:54AM

"Unfortunately not Sam."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 04, 2020 8:35PM

"Regarding the $30k tax write off,what is the eligibility criteria for used vehicles. Is there a klm or build year limit?"

By: Mark Johnson on Dec 21, 2019 8:58PM

"The $30k threshold applies to each asset irrespective of whether the asset is purchased new or second-hand."

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 02, 2020 9:22PM

"Hi, I see clients for a mobile service3 in the suburbs. My employer has her home address listed as our office- but I rarely go there (just going straight from home from client to client). I get reimbursed for km and am wondering how I should be paid. a) start claiming from first client to last client (and then not claiming for journey home) b) add KM from my home all day, back to home, and then minus the return km it is for me to get to her office/home and back. I have concerns about this, as despite driving my car all day for work from client to client, sometimes I wont be eligible to claim anything as its less distance than it is from my home to her office. Any advice would be appreciated!"

By: Billie on Feb 13, 2020 6:57AM

"I wouldn't claim the first or last trips of the day - only all the trips in between from client to client"

By: Mr Taxman on Mar 04, 2020 8:40PM

"Santander financial services is a successful finance brokerage, offering specially designed finance packages to clients worldwide, contact us via email: santander4service@aol.com to submit your application"

By: Santander financial services on Apr 06, 2020 5:53PM

"I travel 240km per day for work anywhere from 3 to 5 days per week. I pick up stock around my local area and bring it back to my place of employment. Would this be tax deductible if I was to provide a log book? "

By: Milz on May 07, 2020 12:00PM

"Yes you will need to keep a log book of your travel for a minimum of 12 weeks in order to claim the work-related portion of your car's running expenses. Note the first and last trips of the day usually aren't claimable whilst if you are picking up a few small pieces on the way to work each day then that trip wouldn't be claimable either."

By: Mr Taxman on May 19, 2020 3:40AM

"I travel 240km per day for work anywhere from 3 to 5 days per week. I pick up stock around my local area and bring it back to my place of employment. Would this be tax deductible if I was to provide a log book? "

By: Milz on May 07, 2020 12:01PM

"Hi, I receive a reimbursement from my company for $0.78 per business km travelled. What am I able to claim as a tax deduction beyond this?"

By: Andrew on May 17, 2020 8:52AM

"Hi, I receive a reimbursement from my company for $0.78 per business km travelled. What am I able to claim as a tax deduction beyond this?"

By: Andrew on May 17, 2020 8:52AM

"You can either claim up to 68 cents per kilometre (not the 78 cents) or you can use the log book method & claim the work related portion of your total running costs of your car for the year."

By: Mr Taxman on May 19, 2020 3:37AM

"Hi, can you apply log book percentage to parking expenses if the client has all of the parking invoice but can't pin point which ones relate to work trips? can's find anywhere to say that I can't do that."

By: Stacey on May 20, 2020 12:42AM

"I would be hesitant to do that Stacey. If they have the recepts it should show location, date & length of parking so should match up with diary/Outlook calendar of where they were & what clients they were seeing. "

By: Mr Taxman on May 21, 2020 1:06AM

"Thanks! Though it was a little bit dodgy and excluded from the return. "

By: Stacey on May 26, 2020 10:48PM

"Hi, I am an agency carer and I am on call a lot of times and work at different facilities each time. Sometimes there are no public transport due to time or the location that I have to catch an uber to work from home. Can I claim tax return for that. Also, I have bought a nurse waist bag etc that are convenient and only used at work but was not anything that was required from the agent. Cani claim tax return for those items too?"

By: Kelly on May 28, 2020 8:05PM

"Unfortunately you can't claim the travel between work & home regardless of there being no other transport options during the time of the day. The bag sounds like you could claim though"

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 02, 2020 12:27AM

"Hi, I'm a healthcare worker who works at a public hospital. Every month, I'm required to go on-call for my department outside of weekday opening hours and 24 hours a day over the weekend during the 7 day period. My public hospital provider which follows the public health award where they pay me a kilometer allowance (Cents per km method) that is apportioned as taxed to 68 cents and an untaxed portion at 22 cents for my callouts to and from hospital. As this is going to increase my gross income and at the end of the FY it will come up as an allowance in my tax return so am I able to claim a deduction for motor vehicle expenses here? To throw a spanner in the works I drive a ute which is my only and primary vehicle. Am I still eligible for a deduction? I'm assuming not. Cheers."

By: Nath on Jun 01, 2020 4:59PM

"Whilst the 90c will be assessable income, you can claim 68c/km to offset it in item D1 in your tax return."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 02, 2020 12:29AM

"To clarify your previous post, I'm able to claim a deduction using cents per kilometer method under D1 for only the taxed component of the kilometer allowance?"

By: Nath on Jun 02, 2020 9:06AM

"Hi, I am wondering if I can claim secure parking for a work vehicle during and outside of work hours? I live in an area with no street parking."

By: Tom on Jun 13, 2020 1:00AM

"Hi, I am wondering if I can claim expenses for secure parking during and outside of work hours for a work vehicle provided to me. I live in an area with no street parking."

By: Tom on Jun 13, 2020 1:12AM

"You won't be able to claim a deduction for car parking unless a0 you park for less than four hours between 7am and 7pm; or b) you park more than 1km from work (ie not close proximity to work)."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 15, 2020 7:33AM

"Hi Taxman. I use my car as an events manager employee at 50% and claim direct through tax as no allowance by employer. The usual log book/work related costs. But this yr i was hit( no fault my me)and subsequently my car written off while on work duty. I What other costs can i claim? I repurchased a similar model but has cost me more due to depreciation. Cheers"

By: Lyanna M on Jul 16, 2020 1:12AM

"I hope you are ok after that accident Lyanna. When we depreciate cars we make an adjustment for when we finally dispose them - this will vary depending on what the insurance company paid you for the write-off. That calculation can get difficult so perhaps best to see a registered tax agent. The new car is then depreciated based on its purchase value & your work-related portion. Remember you need to do a new logbook for the new car even though you are still in the same job."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 18, 2020 12:22AM

"Hi. It's July 2020. I have worked the latter part of 6 months of 19/20 tax year for a vehicle building company as a casual contractor whom I'm employed by an employment agency. Although some tools are at work overnight I take home power drills and a few other expensive tools as there are over 40 people working there. Can I claim fuel, $ per kms , car depreciation and car finance loan and any other expenses being a casual contractor taking tools home. Distance travelled is only 16kms per day. "

By: Gavin fisher. on Jul 25, 2020 11:17PM

"I would expect that a large company like this would have the capability to have tools securely stored on site each night so it would be unlikely that you could claim your travel from home to work each day."

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 26, 2020 12:27AM

"Hi, I am required by my employer to have a valid license, registered and insured car in order to be employed by them. Am I able to claim the costs in the “other deductions” section on my tax return?"

By: Lyndal on Jul 27, 2020 3:44AM

"Your drivers licence would be considered a personal expense & non-deductible. As for your registration & insurance of car you can only claim in D1 Work-related car expenses based on the work-related portion via a 12 week log book"

By: Mr Taxman on Jul 28, 2020 4:05AM

"Hi i am on salary and wage and also have a business. I am required to use the same car for both sources of income and have travelled well in excess of 5,000kms each for both. Am i able to claim 5000kms in my Business section and another 5,000kms in D1?"

By: James on Aug 04, 2020 2:34AM

"No you can't James. The limit of 5000km per year applies to your car not the number of different income activities that you have. So if you claim 5000km against your employment, no cannot claim any kms for your business. Even more reason to organise that logbook!"

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 07, 2020 12:08AM

"Hi Mrtax I’m a sole trader with an ABN, I work for myself as a Nanny. Would my home be considered my place of Business/work, where I then travel to my clients home to care for the children. Wondering if I can claim car expenses? I often prepare activities For the children from home and come up with the day’s activities before travelling to their house. Thanks Jess "

By: Jessica on Aug 07, 2020 11:41PM

"Hi, I work for a company and the office is based in the CBD. I regularly (every week or other week) travel from the office to 2-3 other sites for meetings. I sometimes go directly home post these meetings. Am I able to claim all of the kms or only the ones that are in between the offices? Thanks"

By: James on Aug 20, 2020 2:30AM

"Only the kms between offices James - that is you can't claim the first & last trip of the day."

By: Mr Taxman on Aug 21, 2020 5:04AM

"Hi there, I have just started up my own business as a sole trader. I am a dancer teacher and teach classes from my home via zoom - I also travel to dance studios in the local area to teach for them on a freelance basis. Can I claim my travel to and from these studios? Your help is much appreciated. Rebekah. "

By: Rebekah on Aug 31, 2020 4:00AM

"Yes you will be able to claim travel from one business location to another Rebekah"

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 19, 2020 12:26AM

"If i purchase a new tray for my ute so i can carry tools and ladders can i claim the cost of the new tray on tax?"

By: Josh on Aug 31, 2020 10:53AM

"You wouldn't be able to claim upright but need to depreciate it Josh over a number of years."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 19, 2020 12:24AM

"Hi, I'm a Disability Support Worker (Care Worker) and I would be classed as a itinerant worker. I'm using the logbook method for 2020FY to lodge my tax, just in the process to gathering all my receipts and putting them together. My question as I was a little unsure on this - it's 6.2km's from my house to my childrens school and then it's 48km's from their school to my one clients house, if I were to go directly from home to my clients and not do the school drop off it would be 53km's. Do I add the home to school trip on the way to work as personal / private and then from school to client is for business/work? Also, I started my job in July 2019 but I didn't start doing my logbook with personal and business ODO readings until November 2019. I do have each and every trip from November onwards (which would include the 12 weeks needed to claim) but just want to know seeing as this was my first year, can I start my 12 week logbook method from November 2019 instead of July 2019? Thank you."

By: Liezl on Sep 03, 2020 2:40PM

"Its ok to choose from November 2019 for the start of your logbook Liezl. You can essentially chose any 12 week period during the year so long as its representative of your travel throughout the whole year. As for your trip to school each morning I would classify that as a personal trip & not claim. "

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 19, 2020 12:29AM

"G'day mate. Firstly thank you for helping so many people, the questions are endless!! I work FIFO and take tools to and from work which can't be stored on site. I understand that I can claim 68c per Km, which covers fuel and wear n tear. My question is regarding the addition of safety features on a vehicle such as, Kangaroo deterrents, Roobars or Spotlights. I drive nearly 300km to and from the airport, often in the dark and on country roads. So my actual question is: Can a percentage of such purchases be claimed on top of the 68c allowance? I have about $600 worth of lights on my ute, so I would expect to claim $200+/- ?? Thank you Mr Taxman ! Will you email me your answer please!? "

By: Simon Morley on Sep 07, 2020 9:16PM

"You can claim the 68 cents per kilometre method but that effectively covers all running costs of your vehicle. If you wanted to claim a % of running costs you will need to keep a 12 week logbook. "

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 19, 2020 12:32AM

"I am a caravan park Relief Manager and wanting to purchase a caravan to use as accommodation on-site when I travel to each park. This is generally a requirement of Relief Managers (to provide their own accommodation). Would I be able to claim the purchase of the van and take advantage of tax write off?"

By: Anne on Sep 15, 2020 4:52AM

"I think the Tax Commissioner would unfortunately consider it to be a personal expense Anne - like the purchase of a house would be."

By: Mr Taxman on Sep 19, 2020 12:35AM

"Hi Mr Taxman, I work as a specialist doctor in 2 hospitals, one as PAYG and other as contractor ( sole trader). I travel from home to the second hospital twice a week to see patients. I work at home office (ABN registered to the home address) to prepare for teaching/ rostering. Can I claim the tax for the car mileage between home and the second hospital as a sole trader? "

By: Habakkala on Oct 29, 2020 2:56PM

"Dear taxman, Last year I started to do hsc marking which is pretty far from my usual school. I have at times gone on a weekend from home and during the week after 3 (and drive back late at night). Anyway I know I can claim from my normal school to the centre, but how about going back home? And the weekend? Thanks "

By: Teacher on Nov 01, 2020 6:13AM

"Dear Teacher Unfortunately you can’t claim the first & last legs each day (ie to/from home) … so whilst you can claimf rom school to the HSC Marking Centre, you can’t claim from home to/from HSC Marking Centre. Hope the students do well this year after a tough one for them! "

By: Mr Taxman on Nov 12, 2020 1:57AM

"I am running a small business as a sole trader. I attended some work related training the other day but forgot to pay for the fuel required to travel to and from this training with my business- dedicated account. Am I still able to claim this amount with the receipt?"

By: Liz Evans on Nov 30, 2020 4:22AM

"If you operate under the logbook method then the fuel wil form part of your total fuel bill for the year which you then apply the business-related percentage. Doesn't matter if didn't get paid from main business account."

By: Mr Taxman on Dec 01, 2020 6:44AM

"Hi mrtaxman, I am employed at my home office, I am usually required daily to attend our remote mountain top observatory. I need to check overnight correspondence, see if I will need supplies from the hardware store or packages from couriers (new telescope) to repair or construct a telescope. Then I will travel 35km to the observatory, conduct repairs then return home to contact customers about work I have done to their equipment. This should be claimable, right? Sometimes a customer would like an optical alignment done at night, special request, I dodge all the kangaroos but there is no other way of getting there, is driving this trip claimable? Thanks"

By: Carl on Dec 18, 2020 1:40AM

"Definitely can claim the trips to customers and should be able to claim the trips to the observatory when you have the bulky equipment for the repairs. I would be curious to know how much you are at home versus at the observatory each day because the other general trips (without any bulky equipment) may / my not be deductible depending on where your actual place of work is."

By: Mr Taxman on Dec 20, 2020 11:08PM

"Im planning on hiring a Nanny to drive my child to my ex husband and back twice a fortnight adding up to approximately 6,000km a year. What will they be eligible to claim and what kinds of records should they keep? They will be operating as a sole trader. "

By: Peta Granger on Feb 25, 2021 3:52AM

"I travel from home to up to 3 to 4 farms a week carrying around vaccination equipment and heavy beak trimming machines, employer pays me a cents per KLM after the first 100 KLM every day, i average around 800klm to 1000klm per week am I able to claim the 100klm per day "

By: Daniel on Jun 23, 2021 1:11AM

"You will need to show what your employer pays as income & then separately claim for your car. Based on those sort of kms, the cents per kilometre method probably won't be the one to claim but rather the logbook method."

By: Mr Taxman on Jun 24, 2021 4:11AM

"I work as a lecturer for 5 universities. for 3 universities I am sessional lecture, for 1 university I work 4 days a weeks, and for 1 university i get paid through GST invoice. I have ABN and I pay GST. My home is my main place of work. Can I claim car expenses from Home to work"

By: Neeraj on Jul 15, 2021 2:10PM

"My wife is an employee working in Disability, she has to go from place to for her work and we will use the Logbook method. How much can you claim on your tax for mechanical repairs? Our car his given us trouble since we got it and it has cost 8-10 thousand to fix. can she claim some or all of it? "

By: Brian Thomson on Jul 16, 2021 3:42AM

"I have am an employee. My car loan is structured as a commercial asset loan from my broker, because I use my car for more than 50% work usage. I receive no car allowance. Can I claim a portion of depreciation, fuel, wear and tear, maintenance etc?? "

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By: Ryan Carlos on Sep 09, 2021 1:42AM

"Hello, thank you in advance for your help! I’m a dentist and I carry loupes and a headlight in 2 briefcases for work each day. Am I able to claim expenses for travel to and from work?"

By: S B on Nov 27, 2021 11:38PM

"I do itinerant work as a 1st year electrical apprentice. Some days I have to use my own car to go to multiple job sites in the day. Most days I drive to one of our licensed electricians houses so we can then both travel in a work van for the day. Can I claim for the trips from my home to their houses, and back home at the end of the day?"

By: Daniel C on Nov 28, 2021 8:44AM

"Hi, my partner just purchased a new car for work purposes only. He carries bulky equipment and has been able to claim in the past. My vehicle and his old vehicle are used for personal use and the new car is work only. Is he able to claim 100% percentage as work related if he keeps a logbook? Thank you! "

By: Kim H on Jan 20, 2022 8:55AM

"Hi, my partner just purchased a new car for work purposes only. He carries bulky equipment and has been able to claim in the past. My vehicle and his old vehicle are used for personal use and the new car is work only. Is he able to claim 100% percentage as work related if he keeps a logbook? Thank you! "

By: Kim H on Jan 20, 2022 8:55AM

"Hi, my partner just purchased a new car for work purposes only. He carries bulky equipment and has been able to claim in the past. My vehicle and his old vehicle are used for personal use and the new car is work only. Is he able to claim 100% percentage as work related if he keeps a logbook? Thank you! "

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By: juwan james on Jul 29, 2022 12:54AM

"I run a FAMILY DAY CARE center from my Home, I had to purchase a Toyota Tarago 8 - seater for my business (we have another small car for family), Now almost every day I got to near by schools to drop and pick-up the children on working days and in holidays take them to park or play games places....so I use this car for 80% exclusively to run my family day care. So can I claim the rego, maintenance, repair, depreciation etc as EXPENSES OR AS OTHER DEDUCTIONS? WE CLAIM DEPPRECIATION EVERY YEAR For the Tarago? It is used mainly for our business, can we claim expenses? Where to enter the values in INCOME EXPENSES OR IN OTHER DEDUCTIONS? IS IT CALLED WORK RELATED OR TRAVEL RELATED EXPERIENCE? THANK YOU "

By: ANANDA on Aug 16, 2022 3:02AM

"I run a FAMILY DAY CARE center from my Home, I had to purchase a Toyota Tarago 8 - seater for my business (we have another small car for family), Now almost every day I got to near by schools to drop and pick-up the children on working days and in holidays take them to park or play games places....so I use this car for 80% exclusively to run my family day care. So can I claim the rego, maintenance, repair, depreciation etc as EXPENSES OR AS OTHER DEDUCTIONS? WE CLAIM DEPPRECIATION EVERY YEAR For the Tarago? It is used mainly for our business, can we claim expenses? Where to enter the values in INCOME EXPENSES OR IN OTHER DEDUCTIONS? IS IT CALLED WORK RELATED OR TRAVEL RELATED EXPERIENCE? THANK YOU..... "

By: ANANDA on Aug 16, 2022 5:36AM

"Hi I’m a sole trader trading as a massage therapist I have 2 contractors working for me I bring home the towels in a daily basis to wash and then return them the next day I also do all the clinic social media marketing every morning from my home office before I go into the clinic Are my kms to and from work claimable in log book method Thank you "

By: Sue on Feb 08, 2023 9:06PM

"Hi I’m a sole trader trading as a massage therapist I have 2 contractors working for me I bring home the towels in a daily basis to wash and then return them the next day I also do all the clinic social media marketing every morning from my home office before I go into the clinic Are my kms to and from work claimable in log book method Thank you "

By: Sue on Feb 08, 2023 9:07PM

"I am an onsite computer tech using my own car. I travel to clients site straight from home, work for a period of time then travel straight to next client after etc. I can visit up to 4 clients a day then travel home at end of day. I have had conflicting information about claiming travel from my employer for the journey from home to first clients site and same from client to home at end of day. I am required to drive for work and all my clients change from day to day. What can I claim?"

By: Toby ken on Mar 08, 2023 6:05PM

"My work place are paying a km reimbursement to me for kilometres travelled with a customer in my car during my work shifts. They are paying this as extra income on my payslip thus I am paying tax on this amount can I claim this extra income as km travelled on my tax at the end of the year."

By: Tina on Apr 20, 2023 4:10AM

"I have been using a vehicle for work related matters and have been claiming depreciation and expenses for the last 7 years. Now I got a new car while keeping the old one. Can I use the new car for work related traval and clain expenses on that. I do have a fuel card issued for my old vehicle that I would not like to change to new car. "

By: Jacoob on Jun 13, 2023 6:09AM

"If I go to an offsite meeting for work and get an Uber home from there, can I claim that? If I have left my car at the station, can I also claim the Uber to my car in the morning? Thanks Taxman!"

By: WB on Jun 27, 2023 9:57PM

"Hi, What is the protocol for claiming tax on my personal trailer which is used by my work for all general maintenance work on a full time basis. Thanks Lee."

By: Les Wilkinson on Jul 09, 2023 5:35AM

"Hi, I work from home however I'm occasionally asked to go to my employer's home and work from her house. Can I claim this travel? "

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"Hi, I’m wanting some advice on setting up my new Personal Training business and the need to purchase a car that’s reliable and able to carry all my equipment. Can I claim the cost I pay for the car, or the repayments if I get a down or lease? Is any one way of getting a car better (in what/how much I can claim) than the other? I’m clear on running costs but have heard that we may be able to claim the payment amount, am I completely wrong? And is it better to be a sole trader or am I better off setting up a company? Thanks so much in advance. "

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