Sole traders can deduct medical expenses that are directly related to their business activities.
Medical expenses for sole traders are tax-deductible and they reduce the taxable income. However, they don’t directly offset taxes dollar-for-dollar. Instead, these expenses are deducted from the total income earned, reducing the taxable amount. This reduction can lead to a lower overall tax liability, but it doesn’t directly offset taxes paid on a one-to-one basis.
Here is everything you need to know about medical expenses for sole traders and their tax treatment:
Tax Deductible Medical Expenses for Sole Traders
Eligible medical expenses that can be tax deductible for sole traders are generally those directly related to maintaining or enhancing your ability to work or conduct business. Here’s a list of some deductible medical expenses:
Costs for medical treatments necessitated by injuries sustained while conducting business activities.
For Example: You injure your back while lifting equipment for your business. Medical expenses for diagnosing and treating this injury would likely be deductible.
Useful Tip: Ensure that the injury occurred while you were conducting business activities. Keep records of medical consultations, treatment plans, and receipts for all related expenses.
Expenses for equipment essential for work, such as specialized chairs or ergonomic keyboards if they are necessary due to a work-related health issue.
For Example: You require a specialized ergonomic desk chair due to a work-related back issue.
Tip: Only claim the portion of the expense that directly relates to your business use. Keep receipts and documentation highlighting the necessity of the equipment for work purposes.
Costs associated with medical assessments required for specific work-related purposes, like a pre-employment medical examination or a fitness-for-duty assessment.
Example: You need a medical assessment to ensure your fitness for a specific work project.
Tip: Document the reason for the assessment and how it’s directly linked to your business activities. Keep records of payments, invoices, and any communication indicating its work-related necessity.
Physical therapy or rehabilitation:
Expenses for therapies or rehabilitation necessary for you to continue working effectively after an injury or illness related to your business activities.
Example: You undergo physiotherapy after sustaining an injury during a business-related activity.
Tip: Obtain a referral from a healthcare professional clearly stating the necessity of the therapy for your ability to continue working. Keep detailed records of sessions, payments, and treatment plans.
Suggested Read: What Can Hospitality Workers Claim on Tax – It’s Time to Treat YOU!
Prescribed medications and aids:
Costs for prescribed medications, hearing aids, glasses, or other aids needed to carry out your business activities.
Example: Prescription glasses needed for computer work due to vision problems.
Tip: Ensure the prescription specifically addresses the need for these aids for work-related tasks. Keep receipts and prescriptions as evidence.
Mental health treatments:
Expenses for treatments related to stress or mental health issues that directly impact your ability to work effectively.
Example: Seeking counseling or therapy for work-induced stress or anxiety.
Tip: Obtain documentation from a healthcare professional linking the treatment to work-related stressors. Keep records of sessions and invoices.
Other Deductible Expenses for Sole Traders
As a sole trader in Australia, you can claim various deductions to reduce your taxable income. Here are several deductions available to sole traders:
Operating Expenses:
Deductible expenses related to running your business, such as office rent, utilities, internet, phone bills, stationery, and office supplies.
Motor Vehicle Expenses:
If you use your vehicle for business purposes, you can claim deductions for fuel, maintenance, insurance, registration, and depreciation.
Home Office Expenses:
Proportionate expenses for using part of your home as a workspace, including utility bills, internet, and depreciation on furniture and equipment.
Suggested Read: Work from Home Tax Deduction In Australia: Check Your Eligibility
Business Travel:
Deductions for travel expenses incurred while conducting business, including flights, accommodation, meals, and car hire.
Suggested Read: Your Complete Guide to Work Related Business Trip Tax Deduction
Professional Services:
Fees paid for professional services like accounting, legal advice, or consultancy services directly related to your business.
Marketing and Advertising:
Costs associated with advertising, marketing campaigns, website maintenance, and promotional materials.
Training and Education:
Expenses for professional development courses, workshops, seminars, and training directly related to your business activities.
Insurance Premiums:
Premiums for business insurance, including public liability, professional indemnity, and vehicle insurance.
Superannuation Contributions:
Contributions made to your superannuation fund can be claimed as deductions.
Depreciation of Assets:
Deductions for the decline in value of business assets over time, such as computers, machinery, and tools used for your business.
Applicable Conditions for medical expenses deductions for sole traders:
Relevance to Business: Medical expenses must directly relate to maintaining or enhancing your ability to work or conduct business as a sole trader.
Necessity and Reasonableness: Expenses claimed must be necessary and reasonable in the context of your business operations.
Documentation and Records: Keep detailed records, including receipts and invoices, to substantiate the claimed medical expenses.
Business Purpose: Expenses should have a clear connection to your business activities, ensuring they are not solely for personal use.
Compliance with ATO Guidelines: Adhere to guidelines set by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) regarding deductible medical expenses for sole traders.
The Bottomline
Certain Medical expenses for sole traders are tax deductible given that they are work-related and reasonable. If your medical expenses meet these conditions, you can claim the medical work expenses deductions during your tax return.
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