Do you know there are a number of ways you can save big just by claiming your work uniform? To make things easier, take a look at our list below and see if you fall into one or more of the categories.
Is your uniform compulsory?
If you have a compulsory uniform that is strictly enforced at your workplace, then you can claim for the cost of purchasing it. It must have a company logo and identify you with your place of work. You can’t make a claim for normal business wear that does not have a logo, regardless whether your employer requires you to wear it to work.
Do you have single items of compulsory clothing?
You can also claim for a single item of compulsory clothing, such as a shirt or a tie. However, it too must also be distinctive to your employer. For example, a business shirt with the company logo permanently attached to it and not available to the general public can be claimed.
Non Compulsory Uniforms
If your employer encourages you to wear a corporate wardrobe but does not enforce it, you can only claim if the uniform is registered with Ausindustry. You cannot claim for stockings, socks or shoes because these cannot be part of a registered uniform. Unsure? Ask your employer if your uniform is registered or not.
Occupation Specific Clothing
This type of clothing is a uniform that identifies you to your employer or profession. For example the checkered pants of a chef are occupation-specific, whereas a black and white waiter’s uniform does not identify you to a specific employer or profession.
Protective Clothing
Anything you may wear while working to protect yourself from injury or risk of injury can be classified as protective clothing. Examples include aprons, steel-capped boots, safety vests and wet weather gear.
Costumes
If you are a performing artist you can claim the cost of purchasing costumes you buy or hire for a role. You must however already have the role to make the claim – you can’t claim if you are just auditioning.
Have a question or opinion on tax deductions for uniforms? Contact us by phone with your query or if you prefer, email the team on admin@etax.com.au.