Tax Returns and Deductions for Nurses
Tax returns for nurses, midwives and assistants in nursing, prepared by registered tax agents who know what the ATO allows. In our Sydney offices or online.
What nurses can claim
You can generally claim work expenses that you paid for yourself, that relate directly to earning your income, and that you have a record of. You can't claim expenses your employer reimburses you for. Common deductions for nurses and midwives include:
- Uniforms and protective clothing: compulsory uniforms with your employer's logo, protective clothing and footwear you need for work, and the cost of washing them.
- Registration and memberships: renewing your AHPRA registration, and union or professional association fees.
- Equipment: fob watches, stethoscopes and other work equipment. Items costing $300 or less can be claimed straight away; dearer items are depreciated.
- Self-education: courses and conferences that maintain or improve the skills you use in your current role.
- Travel during work: for example, travelling between hospitals or to patients' homes during a shift.
- Phone and internet: the work-related share of your bills.
- Overtime meals: if you receive an overtime meal allowance under your award or agreement and spend it on a meal.
What you can't claim: travel between home and work, everyday clothing (even in a colour your employer asks for), and gym or fitness costs.
How we help nurses
Many nurses work shifts for more than one employer or through an agency. We bring all your income statements together, check every deduction you are entitled to, and lodge your return.
Fees
We agree a fixed fee with you before we start, so there are no surprises. The fee for managing your tax affairs is generally tax-deductible in the year you pay it.
See us at our Chippendale or Annandale office, or work with us by phone, video and email from anywhere in Australia.
Frequently asked questions
You can generally claim the cost of renewing your registration each year. The cost of your first registration, before you start working as a nurse, is not deductible.
If your total work-related expenses are $300 or less, you don't need receipts, but you must have spent the money and be able to show how you worked out the claim. Laundry claims of up to $150 also don't need written evidence. Above those amounts, you need records.
No. We include your income from every employer and check that enough tax has been withheld across them, so you are not surprised by a bill.
Generally not. Travel between home and your usual workplace is private. Travel between workplaces during the day, or to patients during a shift, is generally deductible.
Ready to lodge?
Book a time with a registered tax agent, or get a quick quote online.
