It’s hard to believe, but we’re approaching that time of the year again – tax time!

As the end of the financial year draws closer, you’ll likely start thinking about that big fat tax refund and what you can do with it. But first you need to make sure you maximise your cheque.

To help property investors get their fair share of the tens of billions in tax refunds handed back each year to individuals and put themselves in good financial stead for next year, we’ve put together the following tips:

Maximise your deductions

Depreciation Quote ScheduleThe easiest way to maximise your tax return is to maximise your deductions.

As a property investor, know all of the expenses you can claim as a deduction and make those payments before the end of the financial year.

Claim for everything you’re entitled to, no matter how small it is. Every dollar will contribute to your investment’s return – and your wealth.

As a guide, landlords can usually claim the following as tax deductions:

 

Some tax deductions allowed for investment properties are often overlooked and some, such as the cost of renovations, are included when they shouldn’t be. To get it right, consult a professional.

Don’t forget about depreciation

Up to 80 per cent of property investors are missing out on thousands of dollars in tax savings because they fail to take maximum advantage of depreciation.

Depreciation is a reduction in the value of an asset over time due to wear and tear, and for income-producing assets, can be claimed as a tax deduction.

There are two types of depreciation allowances for rental properties. The first is plant and equipment, which covers removable items such as dishwashers. The second is capital works on the building, covering the property’s structure. If the property was built after July 1985 depreciation can be claimed on both elements. (Deductions for plant and equipment items may only apply if you bought the property prior to May 9, 2017 – Read about the Budget changes here).

Depreciation is one of the key ways to maximise tax returns, and it can be done without spending a cent because it’s a non-cash deduction.

Get a profession quantity surveyor to prepare a depreciation schedule for you to maximise your deductions, with the fee also being tax deductible.

Prepay expenses

If you expect to have a lower income next year then consider prepaying expenses on your investment property, such as interest or other holding costs – for up to a year in advance – before June 30. This will give you greater deductions to reduce the tax payable on your higher income this year.

 maximise tax returnConsider delaying income

Minimise this year’s tax liability by delaying income until after July 1. For property investors this will largely be applicable to property you’re selling – if you know you’ll be up for capital gains tax, consider delaying the sale until next year.

Seek the help of professionals

Getting advice from a great accountant or tax specialist will pay off, saving you both time and stress, while also maximising tax return.

The fee will be tax deductible and if they do a good job you’ll get your money’s worth by getting the best possible refund.

Often a good accountant will find deductions you never even knew existed, and they’ll also make sure everything you claim is legal. This will avoid a visit from the taxman down the track.

Keep good records

Do you always find yourself scrambling to sort through the piles of papers at the end of the financial year, desperately trying to find receipts for your tax deductions, let Depreciation Calculatoralone trying to make sense of them?

While it can be tedious, you’ll find it’s much easier to be organised throughout the year. File away your tax documents so you know where they are come June 30.

This will enable you to maximise your deductions, as you’ll have every receipt and will be able to claim every single penny you’re entitled to. You’ll also be more accurate in what you claim and will have good records to substantiate your claims.

Do everything by the book

Investment properties can sometimes be targeted by the ATO, so make sure whatever you do to maximise your tax return is legal.

An accountant can make sure you claim only the deductions you’re entitled to claim, in the right way.

Remember, if you get audited it could cost you significant sums of money, so it’s not worth fudging the figures.

About Tyron Hyde

Tyron Hyde is the CEO of Washington Brown Quantity Surveyors. He is regarded as one of the industry's leading experts in property tax depreciation, is regularly quoted in the media & asked to speak at conferences.

Learn why more Property Investors Choose Washington Brown to prepare their depreciation reports.