Can Police Officers Claim Phone and Internet Costs?
Police officers may use mobile phones and internet for work-related communication, rosters, emails or operational administration. A claim depends on work use, private use and records.
Phone and internet claims for police officers
Garry explains how phone and internet deductions are reviewed, why private use has to be separated from work use, and the records that make a claim easier to support.
Use the video as a quick check before preparing phone bills, internet costs, work-use notes and any employer reimbursement details for your return.
How phone claims are usually reviewed
- Work-related usage must be separated from private usage
- A reasonable calculation or records may be needed
- Phone plan bills can help support the claim
- Device purchase costs may need apportionment
Common mistakes
- Claiming the full phone bill without considering private use
- Not keeping bills or usage records
- Claiming a phone that is reimbursed by the employer
- Using the same percentage every year without reviewing changes
What to prepare
- Phone bills
- Estimate or record of work use
- Device receipt if claiming handset costs
- Any employer reimbursement information
Frequently asked questions
Can police claim 100% of their phone bill?
Only if it is fully work-related, which is uncommon. Most claims need apportionment between work and private use.
Do I need phone bills?
Bills or records help support the work-related portion of the claim.
Can I claim internet as well?
Internet may be reviewed separately where there is work-related use and records to support the claim.
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