Your everyday police work gear could include claimable expenses
Watch the PoliceTax work gear video covering protective items, tools and equipment, private use, reimbursements and the records officers should keep.
What this video means at tax time
Sort work gear before adding it to your return
Protective or occupation-specific
Items designed to protect against a real work risk or distinctly identify an occupation can be treated differently from conventional everyday clothing.
Tools and equipment
Eligible work-use equipment may be immediately deductible or claimed through decline in value depending on cost and circumstances.
Private use and reimbursement
Only the work-related portion is relevant, and an amount paid or reimbursed by an employer cannot be claimed again.
Records to keep
- Receipts and invoices
- Work-use calculation
- Employer policy or equipment requirements
- Reimbursement details
Frequently asked questions
Can police officers claim all equipment they take to work?
No. The item must have the required connection to earning employment income, and any private use, reimbursement and deduction timing rules need to be considered.
Are ordinary clothes claimable if I wear them at work?
Conventional clothing is generally private even when worn at work. Protective, occupation-specific or eligible compulsory uniform items follow different rules.
Related PoliceTax resources
Want us to check your circumstances?
These videos are general information. PoliceTax can review your records and tax position before you lodge.