10 Smart Ways to Pay Less Tax in 2025—Without Risking an ATO Audit

Gotax Publishing – 8 October 2025

Paying Less Tax Isn’t About Tricks—It’s About Strategy

We all want to pay less tax. But here’s the truth: the ATO has seen every trick in the book. If you want to keep more of your hard-earned cash, you need to know which deductions are legit, which offsets apply, and how to claim them properly.

At Gotax, we help everyday taxpayers maximise refunds without crossing the line. Here are 10 smart, ATO-approved ways to pay less tax in 2025.

1. Keep Bulletproof Records

The ATO loves receipts. Without them, your claims can vanish.

• Photograph receipts as you go
• Keep digital copies in one folder
• Use Gotax’s deduction tracker to store them securely

Pro tip: The ATO now accepts digital receipts—no shoebox required.

2. Claim Work-Related Expenses (the Right Way)

If you spend money earning your income, it’s usually deductible.

• Uniforms with logos
• Tools and equipment
• Work-related travel and phone use

Warning: Claiming “standard” amounts without proof is an audit trigger. Gotax prompts you for the right evidence.

3. Don’t Forget Home Office Expenses

With hybrid work here to stay, the ATO updated its fixed rate method in 2025.

• 70 cents per hour covers electricity, internet, and phone
• Or claim actual costs if you’ve got detailed records

Gotax calculates both methods and shows you which gives the bigger refund.

4. Claim Your Super Contributions

Personal super contributions are deductible if you lodge a Notice of Intent with your fund.

• Boosts your retirement savings
• Reduces your taxable income
• Can unlock the government co-contribution

5. Claim Donations Over $2

Donations to registered charities are deductible.

• Must be over $2
• Must have a receipt
• You don’t get the full amount back—it reduces taxable income

6. Use the Low and Middle Income Offsets (if eligible)

The Low Income Tax Offset (LITO) still applies in 2025.

• Up to $700 back if you earn under $66,667
• Applied automatically by the ATO

7. Claim Your Tax Agent Fees

Yes—even the cost of using Gotax is deductible.

• Claim it in the year you pay it
• Covers both online and in-person tax agent services

8. Offset Investment Losses

If you’ve got shares, property, or crypto, you can offset losses against gains.

• Keep detailed records of buys, sells, and fees
• Gotax helps you calculate capital gains tax (CGT) correctly

9. Claim Work-Related Education

If your course relates directly to your current job, it’s deductible.

• Course fees
• Textbooks
• Travel to and from campus

10. Lodge On Time

The easiest way to lose money? Late lodgement.

• ATO penalties start at $313 and climb fast
• Refunds are delayed until you lodge

Gotax keeps you on schedule with reminders and fast online lodgement.

FAQs

What’s the easiest way to pay less tax?
Keep good records and claim every deduction you’re entitled to. Gotax makes it simple.

Can I claim work clothes without a logo?
No. The ATO only allows uniforms with logos or protective gear.

Do I need receipts for small expenses?
Yes. The ATO can ask for proof of any claim.

Is my Gotax fee deductible?
Absolutely. Claim it in your next return.

Final Thoughts: Pay Less Tax, Stay Compliant

Paying less tax isn’t about dodging the rules—it’s about knowing them. With Gotax, you’ll claim every deduction, apply every offset, and keep your refund safe from ATO scrutiny.

Don’t leave money on the table. Lodge smarter with Gotax.

Mandatory Disclaimer

This blog is an information source only. Make sure you seek professional advice, like Gotax, before you act on its contents.