Work related travel expenses can be claimed as a tax deduction, which will assist in maximizing your tax refund.
According to the ATO, work related travel expenses are any costs incurred as a result of travel, transportation or accommodation accrued during the course of your job. This does not include travel to and from home to your normal place of employment.
Work related travel expenses may include use of your personal motor vehicle, overnight accommodation and meal charges, flights, other transport costs and ancillary travel expenses.
It is important that you keep all accommodation and work related travel expenses records and receipts to substantiate your travel claims including travel a travel diary for longer overnight trips.
When Work Related Travel Expenses Are Allowed as Tax Deductions
There are a few simple criteria that determine when you can claim work related travel expenses as a tax deduction, which are:
• Only claim expenses that are incurred as part of work related travel. Allow for private and personal components when required.
• The amount you can claim is dependent on whether you receive an allowance for any costs incurred and whether that allowance is included on your PAYG summary.
What You Can Claim as Work Related Travel Expenses
• Meals (if the travel was overnight)
• Accommodation
• Incidentals
• Travel costs associated with airplane, bus, train and tram tickets, as well as taxi fares
• Vehicle hire (including fuel, insurance, registration, and repairs)
• Travel between two workplaces
What You Cannot Claim as Travel and Accommodation Expenses
• Travel between work and home
• Private purchases made during work related travel