As End of Financial Year (EOFY) quickly approaches, we look at 3 ways in which businesses can prepare, and 3 things consumers can do to make the most out of tax time. No matter if you’re running a business, or working for one, EOFY can be a stressful time. Here we discusses some simple things you can do to make the process as smooth as possible.
For Businesses:
Seek Expert Advice
No matter if you’ve been in the game for years or if this is your first financial year wrap-up as a business owner, it is always important to seek expert advice. If you’re ever unsure, the best choice is to consult someone who can look over your paperwork and make sure everything is compliant.
Claim Your $20,000 Asset Write-Offs
The Australian government offers an instant write-off scheme to qualified small businesses at EOFY. Any new assets purchased that are under $20,000 and installed by June 30 can be written-off instantly, and there is no limit to the number of assets. This is a great opportunity for start-ups or small businesses looking to upgrade their equipment and don’t want to wait the usual 5 years to see the return.
Get Everything In Order
Potentially our number one tip for businesses come tax time is to make sure everything is in order. Review your cash flow to ensure any big ticket items are accounted for and take some time to look at employee contracts and superannuation to make sure everything is up to date. Whilst this might seem like a minor thing, it can help avoid any major surprises come the EOFY, and also allows you to lodge your tax ASAP and realise the returns sooner.
For Consumers:
Contribute To Your Superannuation
Not only is paying a little extra into your superannuation account a great strategy to reduce the tax you pay this June, but will help set-you up in the long-term if you make it a yearly habit. Talking with your employer about salary sacrificing some of your income pre-tax can put more dollars in your pocket for retirement and reduce the income you’re taxed on. If you can’t salary sacrifice, not to worry, you can claim post-tax contributions as deductions!
Donate To Charity
If you’ve already given a little extra to your future self-through your superannuation, why not consider giving a little something to others through a charitable donation. Doing so is not only going to help a good cause but can even have a positive impact on your tax bill. Donations are often tax-deductible and can therefore help reduce your debt or grow your refund.
Make That Big Purchase You’ve Been Thinking Of
Just as you are trying to better your position come EOFY, so are business owners. Clearing out old stock has been a long-time strategy to help businesses get a better outcome during tax time and they are not the only ones who benefit. As a consumer you can score a big discount on a range of big-ticket items in the lead up to June 30. Whilst most people think this is limited to cars and white-goods, you can even get discounts on items such as holiday packages.