It's almost tax time... Here are some tips on what you can claim

Tax Tips Blog Post 

Tax Tips for Nurses: What You Might Be Missing (But Could Be Claiming)

Tax time can be overwhelming, especially when your day-to-day life as a nurse involves multiple roles, long shifts, and constant learning. It’s easy to overlook the smaller work-related expenses or assume they aren’t worth mentioning. But the truth is, there are plenty of things you may be eligible to claim that could boost your return - and some of them might surprise you.

What You Can Claim

If you've bought your own scrubs, washed them at home, or even picked up a stethoscope or a fob watch out of pocket, you're probably entitled to claim those. Even the bag you carry your gear in or the shoes that get you through 12-hour shifts could count. If you’re part of a union or pay for your annual AHPRA registration, those costs are often claimable too.

Many nurses also forget that if they've paid for extra training, seminars, or professional development courses that relate to their current role, those may be deductible. If you’ve been on call or need your phone for rosters and work-related communication, a portion of your phone bill might be claimable as well. Some nurses move between different locations throughout their shift - especially midwives or agency staff - and travel between workplaces can sometimes be included too. Donations to registered charities, especially ones close to the hearts of many in healthcare, can also be considered.

These might seem like minor things, but they add up - and understanding them could make a big difference at tax time.

What You Can’t Claim

That said, there are a few common pitfalls. One of the biggest is trying to claim anything your employer has already reimbursed. If your hospital paid for your course, your uniform, or provided you with a work phone, it’s best to leave those off your claim. The same goes for your daily commute - no matter how long or exhausting it is, travel to and from work generally doesn’t qualify. And if you’ve chosen to use your own gear when a company-provided alternative exists, that might not be deductible either.

Ultimately, the key is being honest, clear, and curious. Your tax advisor might be a pro at numbers, but they’re probably not an expert on what your job really involves - so the more detail you give, the better chance you have of maximising your return. Don't be afraid to ask questions or double-check what you’re entitled to. With a little effort, you might be surprised by what you can claim - and that makes all the difference when tax time rolls around.

So before June 30 rolls around, take a moment to go through your work-related expenses and make sure nothing’s slipping through the cracks. Because let’s face it — you’ve worked hard this year, and you deserve every dollar you can get back.

For more information on what you can and can't claim click on the following link Nurses and Midwives - income and work - related deductions. ato.gov.au

This advice is general in nature only and doesn’t take into account personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider if this advice is appropriate for you and seek advice from a qualified CPA or financial professional if further information is required.