Home office expenses Claiming a computer phone or other electronic device

Individual Tax Return Basics:

Home office expenses – Claiming a computer, phone or other electronic device as a work-related expense

If you’re an employee and required to use your computer, phone, tablet or other electronic device for work purposes, you may be able to claim a tax deduction.

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However, you must be able to demonstrate how you used the device for work and you can only claim the work-related proportion of your use, excluding any private use.

You’ll also need to keep records to show how you worked out your claim. These can include phone and internet bills as well as bank statements.

You should maintain a diary with details of your work-related use. The reason is simple.

If your tax return is selected for a review or audit, and you haven’t got the necessary records, then your claims could be disallowed. A penalty may also apply, depending on the circumstances.