Completing a tax return can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time having to do it. Whether you’re fresh in your first high-paying role or have worked diligently for more than 30 hours in a week, completing your tax return is an important part of your tax obligation.

If you are earning or will earn more than $18,200 this year, a tax return will need to be lodged. You should also lodge a tax return if you have earned less than that amount and your employer took tax out of your pay, as you may receive that tax back.

The first step is working out where all of the income earned has come from. Most of your income is automatically uploaded to the ATO, be it from your wage or via interest from a bank account. Income that you might have received but that has not been sent to the ATO could include tips, income earned while working under an ABN (think gig economy) or distributions from a family trust. These amounts will need to be worked out and included in your tax return.

You may be entitled to certain tax deductions as well for things such as:

• Uniforms and protective clothing.
• Certain travel expenses between workplaces (but not from home to work).
• If an apprentice or trainee, any tools or equipment that you may have had to buy out of pocket.
• Union fees.
• Any donations you make.
• Costs incurred in the course of educating yourself (courses, seminars, training etc.).

It is important to understand that, when claiming something as a tax deduction, getting all of the money back on it isn’t an option. You will instead get the tax rate of your earnings back on the total cost, which can be quite low for those who are first entering the workforce.

If your income is above a certain threshold, you may also have to make HELP or HECS debt repayments which could impact what you get back from your return.

Now may also be the time to check on your superannuation. If you are over 18 years old or work more than 30 hours in a week, your employer must pay money into your super. It might not be the most pressing concern in your thoughts, but acting now with regard to your super could have long-term benefits. Make sure that you are receiving superannuation and that it is placed in the most suitable portfolio for you.

If you are looking for assistance with completing a tax return or would like to know more about what you might be able to claim back on your return, speaking with a professional tax agent like us can aid you more in the long run.