Sole trader — tradie/builder tax deductions: what you can claim
What you can claim, what you cannot, and the records the ATO expects. Written in plain English and updated for the 2025–26 financial year.
Oscar says"Same as tradie PLUS instant asset write-off under $20K (to June 2026), full vehicle deduction if sole business use, depreciation of plant. Scan the receipt the day you get it and June takes care of itself."
Records you need to keep
Tax invoices for all purchases, logbook, payroll records, super payment receipts. A claim without a receipt or tax invoice behind it is a claim you may have to repay if the ATO asks.
ATO red flags for this occupation: Mixing personal and business expenses, assets not logged. These are the patterns that trigger review letters, so keep airtight records for exactly these claims.
Common questions
What records do I need to keep?
Tax invoices for all purchases, logbook, payroll records, super payment receipts. Keep them for five years from when you lodge.
What gets claims like mine reviewed by the ATO?
Mixing personal and business expenses, assets not logged. Solid receipts and logs are the answer to all of them.
Oscar already knows these rules
Pick your occupation once, then scan, email, or forward receipts. Oscar classifies each one against these exact ATO rules and tells you what it is worth. Free to start.
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