Tax time stage fright? The ATO can help

June 8th, 2022 by AUSTA Admin

Performing Artists:

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has put together a range of resources and tips to help you lodge your tax return this year.

  1. Check out the work-related expenses guide for performing artists to find out what you can and can’t claim this year.
  2. COVID-19 has had a big impact on the performing artist industry and as a result you might have a few new and different claims this year. If you’ve received a COVID-19 support payment, remember the tax treatment of these payments varies so make sure you visit the ATO’s quick guide to the tax treatment of the various COVID-19 payments.
  3. Don’t forget, any COVID-19 tests you purchased for work purposes are now tax deductible. You can claim a deduction for any tests you paid for from 1 July 2021 as longs as you:
  • used the test for a work-related purpose
  • had a qualifying COVID-19 test, such as a PCR test or a rapid antigen test
  • have a record of your purchase (you can use to ATO app)
  • were not reimbursed for the cost by your employer.

Finally, if you need help completing and lodging your tax return and your income is around $60,000 or less, you may be eligible for the ATO’s free Tax Help program.

If you need more information, you can find it at ato.gov.au/pa.

Teachers:

Read more about deductions you can claim here.