The Morrison Government has welcomed the extension of the temporary arrangements put in place by the Australian Tax Office (ATO) to make it easier for Australians to claim deductions for working from home due to COVID-19.
Now, until 30 September 2020, taxpayers working from home can continue to claim a rate of 80 cents per hour and will only be required to keep a record of the number of hours they have worked from home, rather than needing to calculate specific running expenses.
The short cut deduction method is making it easier for many Australians who are continuing to work from home due to COVID-19 when it comes to accurately completing their tax return.
These continuing arrangements do not prohibit Australians from making a standard working from home claim using the two standard approaches should they wish to do so.
For further information about these new arrangements visit: https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Income-and-deductions/Deductions-you-can-claim/Home-office-expenses/
It you require urgent assistance with your tax affairs due to COVID-19 you should contact the ATO’s Emergency Support Infoline 1800 806 218.