What Cleaners Can Claim
These are the most common deductions the ATO accepts for cleaners. Remember the three rules: you spent the money yourself, it's directly related to earning your income, and you have records to prove it.
| Common Deductions for Cleaners |
|---|
| Cleaning products and supplies (if self-supplied) |
| Protective gloves and gear |
| Uniform or work clothing |
| Vehicle expenses (travel between cleaning jobs) |
| Phone (client scheduling) |
| Insurance |
| Equipment (vacuum, mop — depreciate if over $300) |
| First aid kit |
Average Claim
The typical cleaner claims around $1,400 in work-related deductions per year. If your claim is significantly above this, make sure your records are bulletproof — the ATO data-matches your claim against others in your occupation.
Watch Out
If you work for a cleaning company, most supplies are provided. You can only claim what you buy yourself and aren't reimbursed for.
How to Claim
Report your deductions at Item D1 (work-related expenses) in your tax return. Use myTax or a tax agent. Keep receipts for 5 years. For items under $300, you get an instant deduction. For items over $300 (laptops, tools), you depreciate them over their effective life.
The $300 No-Receipt Rule
You can claim up to $300 in total work-related expenses without receipts. But the ATO can still ask you to show how you calculated the amount. This is a total across ALL categories — not $300 per item.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can cleaners claim on tax?
Common deductions for cleaners include: cleaning products and supplies (if self-supplied), protective gloves and gear, uniform or work clothing, vehicle expenses (travel between cleaning jobs), and more. The average claim is around $1,400.
Do I need receipts?
For claims totalling over $300 in work-related expenses, yes. Keep all receipts for 5 years from the date you lodge your return. Digital copies are accepted.
How much do cleaners usually claim?
The average cleaner claims about $1,400 per year in work-related deductions. Claims well above average are more likely to be audited.