[Potsy]

I've got 2 questions that I hope somebody can answer for me.

Firstly, if we wear prescription glasses which are required for driving can I claim them as a tax deduction?

Secondly, I have a small warehouse whereby I can purchase tea, coffee, biscuits and other kitchen supplies and claim those as a tax deduction. Why then, can't we claim coffee or snacks we buy during a work shift driving for Uber? I don't understand this.

 

[PTB]

mileage deduction is the best option.
stop worrying about the nick-nacks and keep track of your mileage with/without a passenger while ON-LINE.

 

[Dog]

I've got 2 questions that I hope somebody can answer for me.

Firstly, if we wear prescription glasses which are required for driving can I claim them as a tax deduction?

Secondly, I have a small warehouse whereby I can purchase tea, coffee, biscuits and other kitchen supplies and claim those as a tax deduction. Why then, can't we claim coffee or snacks we buy during a work shift driving for Uber? I don't understand this.

I would say no for the Glasses for the same reason as you can't claim the costs of getting your license, all the steps required in obtaining your license (something you need to drive uber) is not claimable. You would've needed the glasses to drive anyway.

 

[Geely Gangster]

On a side note this website says they can do your tax return for $79! Seems a good price, they specialise in Uber drivers and Freelancers. What do you guys think, any good? https://airtax.io/

 

[UberDriverAU]

I've got 2 questions that I hope somebody can answer for me.

Firstly, if we wear prescription glasses which are required for driving can I claim them as a tax deduction?

I'd say no on the glasses as well. You might have a very small chance if you only use them for driving and keep them in your car, but I think the ATO would consider this to be a private expense.

Secondly, I have a small warehouse whereby I can purchase tea, coffee, biscuits and other kitchen supplies and claim those as a tax deduction. Why then, can't we claim coffee or snacks we buy during a work shift driving for Uber? I don't understand this.

The first scenario is considered to be providing employees with an exempt fringe benefit, the second would be considered a private expense.

As always, if you want a definitive answer give the ATO or a decent tax accountant a call.

 

[UberDriverAU]

Here's the answer on glasses:

Glasses and contact lenses
You cannot claim a deduction for the cost of buying prescription glasses or contact lenses as it is a private expense relating to a personal medical condition. You may claim the cost of protective sunglasses if you are required to work outdoors and as a result are exposed to risk of eye damage from sunlight, see Sunglasses, sunhats and sunscreens.

 

[Potsy]

I'd say no on the glasses as well. You might have a very small chance if you only use them for driving and keep them in your car, but I think the ATO would consider this to be a private expense.

Ok thanks everyone.
The first scenario is considered to be providing employees with an exempt fringe benefit, the second would be considered a private expense.

As always, if you want a definitive answer give the ATO or a decent tax accountant a call.

 

[Geely Gangster]

Daddy needs some new Rayban sunglasses for driving and protecting my eyes from the glare during the day while Uber driving! LOL