Work-related travel expenses

Written on the 20 May 2014 by Macmillans Waller Fry - Accountants in Maitland

Travelling to work can end up costing an individual hundreds of dollars.

However, eligible individuals are able to boost their tax refund with some deduction claims. Individuals are able to claim a deduction if they incur any travel related expenses that directly relates to their specific job function.

Depending on the individual’s circumstances they can claim the cost of transport, incidentals, and meals for overnight trips. However, they must be able to provide the necessary documentation.

Some of the travel expenses that can be claimed on a tax return include:

• air, bus, train and taxi fees
• bridge and toll fees
• parking fees
• car hire charges

To claim any travel expenses, the travel must be explicitly work-related.

Overnight trips should also include a travel diary to support any claims.

Individuals are usually unable to claim for travel between their home and work but can claim for travel between two workplaces. This principle applies whether they travelled by train, bus, taxi or private vehicle.