ATO Category Checker

Find the correct ATO expense category for your receipts

💡 Tip: Be specific about what it was for and how you used it for work

Quick examples to try:

Understanding ATO Expense Categories

Why Categories Matter

Correctly categorizing your expenses is crucial for:

  • Accurate tax return preparation
  • Maximizing legitimate deductions
  • Avoiding ATO audits and penalties
  • Better financial record-keeping
  • Understanding your spending patterns

The Golden Rule

To be tax-deductible, an expense must be:

  • ✓ Directly related to earning your income
  • ✓ Not a private or domestic expense
  • ✓ Not a capital expense (or claimable via depreciation)
  • ✓ Properly documented with receipts/invoices

Common Categories Explained

Motor Vehicle Expenses

Use logbook method (actual costs) or cents per km (simplified, max 5,000km at $0.88/km for 2024-25)

Home Office Expenses

Choose between fixed rate method (67c per hour) or actual cost method with detailed records

Tools & Equipment

Under $300: immediate deduction. Over $300: depreciate over effective life

Self-Education

Must directly relate to current work activities, not help you get a new job

Record Keeping Requirements

  • Keep all receipts, invoices, and bank statements
  • Retain records for 5 years from the date you lodge your return
  • Digital records (photos, scans) are acceptable
  • Document the work-related purpose of each expense
  • Maintain a vehicle logbook if claiming car expenses

💡 Pro Tip

ReceiptClaimer automatically categorizes your receipts using AI, making tax time much easier. Upload a receipt and we'll suggest the right ATO category, track your deductions, and keep everything organized for your accountant.

💡 Auto-Categorize All Your Receipts

Stop guessing categories. Upload receipts and our AI automatically categorizes them for ATO compliance.

Automatic OCR extraction
Smart categorization
Export to CSV/PDF

Get More Tax Deduction Tips

Free calculators, ATO updates, and strategies to maximize your refund

No spam, unsubscribe anytime

Other Free Tools

🚗

ATO Mileage Calculator

Calculate your vehicle deductions instantly

📊

GST Calculator

Calculate GST obligations for your BAS

🏠

Rental Property Calculator

Estimate landlord tax deductions