7 health-related products that may be tax deductible

WHILE most health and beauty products aren't tax deductible, there are a few exceptions worth knowing about.

Can you claim that moisturiser?

WHILE most health products aren't tax deductible, there are a few exceptions worth knowing about.

Finance expert and Officeworks spokesperson Justine Davies says, "The basic rule of thumb is that for something to be a work-related expenses (and therefore a tax deduction), you have to be able to prove it's a necessary part of your employment."

Here, Davies suggests products to consider - just make sure you check with your accountant or the tax office before filing your claim.

1. FIRST-AID COURSE
 
Tax-deductible if… you're the designated first-aid person in your workplace and need to do training.

2. MOISTURISERS
 
Tax-deductible if… you work in a harsh environment and it's essential that you maintain a well-groomed and well-presented image for your job (think airline cabin crew, rather than construction workers).
 
3. DANCE LESSONS

Tax-deductible if… you work as a professional dancer or performer, or in the adult industry, in cases where dance lessons can help to maintain or improve the dance skills you use as part of your job.

4. PORTABLE FRIDGE

Tax-deductible if… you're a truck driver. Depreciation on the cost of a portable fridge is a tax deduction for long-haul drivers if it's used for the storage of food and drink while on work-related travel.

5. SPORTS SHOES
 
Tax-deductible if… they form part of a distinctive compulsory uniform and must be worn while on duty or you can show that having a very high degree of fitness is essential to your job.

6. SUNGLASSES, HAT AND SUNSCREEN
 
Tax-deductible if… the nature of your work means working in the sun for all or part of the day and you use these items to protect yourself from the sun during that time.

7. FITNESS TRACKER
 
Tax-deductible if… you have to maintain a very high level of fitness for work (think personal trainers or special armed forces). Wearable tech is a new area in tax terms, so talk to your accountant before making a claim.

This article originally appeared on bodyandsoul.com.au