What can I claim at tax time as a Support Worker?
It’s that time of the year again when we have to get organised and get our taxes done.
Tax time can be somewhat overwhelming, even for the best of us, especially if you have a few deductions and aren’t quite sure what you can and can’t claim.
If you’re a support worker earning between $40,000 - $90,000 per annum your tax refund can reach up to $1,078. The ATO estimate that support workers can claim an average of over $3,127 in tax deductions.
So that you don’t miss out on this tax time, we’ve put together a checklist that support workers can refer to.
Education and further training
First aid and CPR or tertiary level study such as Certificate IV in Community Services, Disability or aged Care can all be claimed.
Legal requirements
If you paid out of pocket for a working with children check or police certificate and you’re now employed as a support worker, then the expense may be claimable.
Transport and food
If you use your vehicle to drive between client homes you can claim this expense. Trips from work to home and vice-versa can’t be claimed but moving between client homes can be.
You can claim travel via public transport between client homes or if out with clients in the community and using public transport during your shift.
If you’re eating out and consume food and beverages with your client during your shift you can claim any food and beverages consumed.
Clothing
If you purchased a compulsory uniform you may be able to claim this amount and the cost of cleaning your uniform - including at-home laundering expenses.
Consumables
Often employers don’t supply day to day items required for tasks as a support worker. Things like stationary for planning with clients, hand sanitiser for hygiene purposes, wet wipes to quick clean ups, or sunscreen to keep your client protected from UV rays can be claimed as a deduction - provided you haven’t submitted a reimbursement claim via your employer.
Telecommunications
Calling clients or your employer, calendar management and looking for great new activities to do with your client are all key to being an efficient support worker and if you’ve used your private mobile phone and internet connection to complete any of these tasks you can claim the portion you used. Computer equipment may also be claimed with certain parameters in place.
Working From Home
In 2022 work from home is a normal part of everyday life for many employees, including support workers. If this is you, then you can claim any hours you spent working from home on tasks such as timesheet submission, calling or emailing clients or your employer and researching client activities. A dedicated WFH area such as an office or spare bedroom increases the amount that can be deducted.
Tax accountant
Finally, if you used a tax accountant in the previous financial year to lodge your tax return then you can claim the amount paid to the agent in the following return.
We hope that this helps take a little stress off of you this tax time!
