Valuable Tax Deduction Opportunity for Small Businesses

25 October 2023

Are you a small business owner with an annual turnover of less than $50 million? Great news! You might be eligible for a 20% bonus deduction on eligible training expenses for your employees. Here's what you need to know:

What is the Small Business Skills and Training Boost?

  • Small businesses can now claim an extra 20% tax deduction on top of their usual deductions for certain employee training expenses.
  • This applies to costs incurred from 7:30 pm AEDT on 29 March 2022 until 30 June 2024.


Are You Eligible?

  • Your business must have an aggregated annual turnover of less than $50 million.
  • Training must be for employees (not business owners or independent contractors).
  • Courses must be provided by registered training providers and already tax-deductible.
  • Expenses must be incurred within the specified period.


What Can You Claim?

  • Costs of external training courses for your employees provided by registered training providers.
  • Incidental costs, such as books and equipment needed for the course, if charged by the training provider.


Exclusions:

  • Training for non-employee business owners or independent contractors is not covered.
  • Costs added by intermediaries, such as commissions or fees, are not deductible under this boost.


Special Note for R&D:

  • Businesses claiming under the R&D tax incentive program can still claim the bonus deduction without affecting their R&D claims.


When Can You Claim?

  • Deductions are generally claimed in the year expenses are incurred.
  • For expenses from 7:30 pm AEDT 29 March 2022 to 30 June 2022, claim the full deduction in your 2021–22 return, and the 20% bonus in your 2022–23 return.
  • For expenses incurred in the 2022–23 and 2023–24 income years, claim both the regular and bonus deductions in the respective year's return.


FBT Reminder:

  • Keep in mind the potential Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) consequences associated with training expenditure.


Action Needed:

  • Ensure you're choosing eligible training providers.
  • Keep detailed records of all relevant expenses.


Don't miss out on this valuable opportunity to invest in your employees' development while also receiving a tax benefit! Contact us today, and we can help you navigate the specifics and maximise your claims under this new initiative.



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