Tax Returns and Deductions for Teachers
Tax returns for teachers and education staff, prepared by registered tax agents who know what the ATO allows. In our Sydney offices or online.
What teachers 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 teachers include:
- Teaching resources: classroom supplies, books and teaching aids you buy yourself and use for work.
- Self-education: courses, conferences and professional development related to your current teaching role.
- Technology: a laptop, tablet or software you use for work, based on your work use. Items costing $300 or less can be claimed straight away; dearer items are depreciated.
- Working from home: lesson planning and marking at home, using the fixed rate per hour with a record of your hours, or your actual costs. See working from home deductions.
- Registration and memberships: renewing your teacher registration or accreditation, and union or professional association fees.
- Excursions and camps: costs you pay yourself for excursions or camps you supervise.
- Travel during work: for example, travelling between schools on the same day.
What you can't claim: travel between home and school, everyday clothing, and childcare.
How we help teachers
Teachers often have a mix of small expenses spread across the year. We help you work out what counts, apply the right method for working from home and technology, 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 claim the work-related share of a laptop you use for teaching. If it cost more than $300, it is depreciated over its effective life rather than claimed all at once.
Yes, for lesson planning, marking and other work at home. Using the fixed rate method, you need a record of the actual hours you worked from home.
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.
Yes, if you use them for work and your school doesn't reimburse you. Keep the receipts.
Ready to lodge?
Book a time with a registered tax agent, or get a quick quote online.
