Zone Rebate Zones and Special Areas 2023

Are you eligible for the zone rebate?

If you live or work in a remote or isolated area of Australia, you may be able to claim a tax offset called the zone rebate. This offset can reduce your tax payable and increase your refund. But how do you know if you are eligible for the zone rebate and how much can you claim?

The zone rebate is based on your usual place of residence, not your work location. From 1 July 2015, you must live in a designated zone for more than half a year (183 days) to qualify for the offset. You can check if your area is in a zone by using the Australian zone list on the ATO website.

There are two zones: Zone A and Zone B, with different rates of offset.

There are also special areas within the zones that have higher rates. The basic amount of offset for 2023 is:

- $338 for Zone A
- $57 for Zone B
- $1,173 for special areas

You may also be entitled to an additional amount if you have a dependent child or student under 25. The additional amount is:

- $56 for each child in Zone A
- $28 for each child in Zone B
- $234 for each child in special areas

However, the additional amount is subject to income tests. If your adjusted taxable income (ATI) or your combined ATI with your spouse exceeds certain thresholds, the additional amount will be reduced or eliminated.

To claim the zone rebate, you need to complete the section in the Gotax.com.au online system and provide the number of days you lived in a zone or special area. 

The zone rebate is a valuable benefit for people who live or work in remote areas of Australia. It can help you save tax and boost your refund. However, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria and keep records of your residence. If you are not sure if you qualify for the zone rebate or how to claim it, you should ask Gotax through their messaging system.

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