Protective clothing | Gotax 2023

How to Claim Protective Clothing as a Tax Deduction

Some work can just be dangerous from time to time and we certainly don't want your well being to be compromised. All jobs have some form of inherent risk and protective clothing is all about preventing that risk from eventuating.

Now that protective clothing comes in many forms and given the diversity of the job market there are a range of safeguards that are tax deductible.  

 For example, you may need to wear a helmet, gloves, high viz, mask, sunscreen or safety glasses to name but a few.

The cost of buying and cleaning these items are tax deductible.

According to Big Brother (ATO), you can claim a deduction for protective clothing or equipment if you tick the following boxes:

- It protects you from the real and likely risk of illness or injury at work
- It directly provides a degree of protection against that risk
- It is not conventional or everyday clothing that you wear for work
- You paid for it yourself and were not reimbursed by your employer

Some examples of protective clothing or equipment that you can claim are:

- Fire-resistant clothing for firefighters
- Sun-protection clothing with a UPF sun protection rating for outdoor workers
- Masks and sanitisers for health workers or cleaners
- Safety glasses (including prescription safety glasses) for workers who deal with hazardous materials
- High visibility gear for workers that need to be seen 

As with all deductions you are claiming for protective clothing or equipment, you need to keep records of your expenses, such as receipts, invoices or diary entries. 

You can claim the actual amount you spent on buying and washing the items.  The ATO has set rates for the washing and the Gotax site calculates that for you.  

You need protective clothing or equipment to keep you safe, make sure you get the tax deduction for it.  Use the GoTax Deduction Grabber App to safely record your deductions through out the year.  Scan the QR code Now...