A quick scan of the average taxpayer’s wallet of receipts or documents in the home office can result in quite a few expenses they can claim as tax deductions. However, some of the most obvious get forgotten on a regular basis.
While not all available tax deductions will apply for every individual (since claimable items vary based on the work they do and other personal circumstances), there are some frequently-used items professionals say people often overlook.
iPhones and iPads Those who use their iPhone or iPad for work and have to pay for it may be able to claim a tax deduction for work-related data usage or calls. If their employer pays for their phone calls but they have purchased a cover for the phone or iPad to protect it, they may be able to claim that.
Electricity, internet and rent Those who have a small business can claim a portion of their electricity bill, internet bill and even rent. Individuals can also claim depreciation on new computers, phones and printers up to the value of $300. However, these tax deductions do not apply to people who work from home one day a week.
Driving expenses Those who drive to see clients as part of their job can save on tax in that area. The two methods used to claim a deduction are cents per kilometre, where individuals can claim 66 cents per kilometre travelled, or through a log book. Individuals must keep receipts for petrol, insurance, registration, servicing and lease costs for the whole year.
Self-education courses Those who have done a self-education course in the past year to improve their job skills can claim a tax deduction. However, if the reason a person does the course is because they’re sick of their current job and want to get a new one, they cannot claim a deduction.
Charity Those who keep their receipts from donating to a registered charity can claim it as a tax deduction.
Strategic planning for businesses ensures resilience and continuity in adversity.
While businesses often focus on growth and expansion, preparing for potential disruptions and emergencies that could threaten operations is equally essential.
This is where disaster management, crisis, and continuity plans come into play.
Disaster Management Plans
Disasters can strike without warning, ranging from natural calamities like floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes to human-made incidents such as cyberattacks, data breaches, or supply chain disruptions.
Disaster management plans outline strategies and protocols for responding to and recovering from such events swiftly and effectively. These plans typically include measures for ensuring employee safety, protecting critical assets and infrastructure, and minimising downtime.
By having a comprehensive disaster management plan, businesses can mitigate the impact of disasters and expedite the recovery process.
Crisis Management Plans
While disasters are often external events beyond a business’s control, crises can arise from internal factors such as leadership failures, product recalls, or reputational issues.
Crisis management plans are designed to address these unexpected challenges and mitigate their impact on the organisation’s reputation, brand equity, and bottom line. These plans outline communication strategies, escalation procedures, and decision-making frameworks for managing crises promptly and transparently. By proactively addressing crises and demonstrating resilience, businesses can preserve stakeholder trust and emerge stronger from adversity.
Business Continuity Plans
Business continuity plans focus on maintaining essential functions and operations during and after disruptive events to ensure minimal disruption to business operations.
These plans identify critical processes, resources, dependencies, and alternative strategies for sustaining operations during a crisis or disaster.
Business continuity plans encompass remote work arrangements, data backup and recovery procedures, and alternative supply chain routes.
By prioritising continuity and preparedness, businesses can reduce downtime, protect revenue streams, and uphold their commitments to customers and stakeholders.
Benefits of Comprehensive Planning
Risk Mitigation: By anticipating potential threats and developing proactive strategies, businesses can mitigate the impact of disruptions and minimise associated risks.
Resilience and Adaptability: Comprehensive planning fosters organisational resilience, enabling businesses to adapt and respond effectively to changing circumstances and emerging challenges.
Stakeholder Confidence: Demonstrating preparedness and responsiveness instils confidence in customers, employees, investors, and other stakeholders, strengthening relationships and fostering loyalty.
Regulatory Compliance: Many industries have regulatory requirements mandating development and implementation of disaster management, crisis, and continuity plans. Compliance with these standards is essential for avoiding penalties and legal liabilities.
Competitive Advantage: Businesses prioritising resilience and preparedness gain a competitive edge by differentiating themselves as reliable partners and service providers.
Disaster management, crisis, and continuity plans are integral components of strategic planning for businesses seeking to enhance resilience and ensure continuity in the face of adversity.
By investing in comprehensive planning, businesses can mitigate risks, maintain essential operations, and safeguard their reputation and bottom line.
In today’s volatile and uncertain business environment, proactive preparedness is not just a best practice but a strategic imperative for long-term success and sustainability. Need assistance with strategic planning as we approach the end of the financial year? Speak to one of our trusted business advisors.
