Tax planning ideas for 2020

With the financial year coming to a close, I thought it was timely to share some of the common strategies we consider when helping clients minimise their taxation liabilities.
Of course, none of the information below should be considered personal taxation advice. I don’t know your circumstances and everyone’s situation is different. Therefore, please don’t act solely on the information contained in this blog. It is best to check with an experienced and appropriately licensed professional.
New work from home deductionsTo accommodate the fact that the majority of people have been working from home during the Covid shutdown period, the ATO has provided a shortcut method for these related deductions. In simple terms, employees are able to claim a tax deduction equal to 80 cents for each hour they have worked from home between 1 March and 30 June 2020.
If more than one person has been working from home in your family, each person is entitled to the shortcut deduction.
If you use the shortcut method, you are not able to claim any additional work from home expenses.
If you do not use this shortcut method, please refer to this blog which it sets out an alternate method for calculating deductions.
When to make additional personal super contributionsAnyone that is 65 years or younger is able to contribute up to $25,000 into super and claim a personal income tax deduction. Included in this concessional contribution cap is any contributions made by your employer on your behalf. This is referred to as Superannuation Guarantee Charge or SGC i.e. the mandatory 9.5% p.a.
If you earn less than $250,000 per year, all contributions are taxed at a flat rate of 15%. This means you pay less tax overall. If you are on the top marginal tax rate, contributing into super saves 35% (47% versus 15%).
However, if you earn over $250,000 per year, contributions are taxed at a flat 30%. This is called Division 293 tax. In this situation, you are still able to reduce your tax by making super contributions, just to a lesser extent.
Finally, if your taxable income is expected to materially exce

ASK ME A QUESTION ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACnxmEP8vv8

My YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@investopolypodcast

If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. It helps me reach more incredible listeners like you. Thank you for being a part of this journey! :-)

Click here to subscribe to Stuart's weekly email.

SPECIAL OFFER: Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog here.

Work with Stuart's team: At ProSolution Private Clients we encourage clients to adopt a holistic and evidence-based approach when making financial decisions. Visit our website.

IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.