Written evidence must be kept for a representative period of at least one month if both of the following apply:

• the amount you claim is greater than $150
• your total claim for work-related expenses exceeds $300.

If you received an allowance from your employer for clothing, uniforms, laundry or dry-cleaning, make sure you show the amount of the allowance on your tax return as it is assessable income. You can only claim a deduction for the amount you actually spent.

For a summary of the ATO's advice in relation to clothing deductions, go here.

Or visit the ATO's website for more information about:

• Occupation-specific clothing
• Protective clothing
• Work uniforms
• Cleaning of work clothing

Tax planning is not about tax avoidance or arranging your affairs to pay no tax (often to your long term financial detriment). Tax planning is about ensuring the tax you pay is appropriate and can be handled by your operation without resulting in financial stress or the unnecessary erosion of wealth.

Tax planning should integrate with your overall plans and goals. Read more at Manage Tax Effectively or call Flor-Hanly's Accountants in Mackay QLD on 07 4963 4800 today.