Tax Checklist - PAYG Employees

As the end of financial year (EOFY) on 30 June approaches, it’s the perfect time for PAYG employees to get organised before lodging their tax return.

A little preparation now can help you maximise your refund, avoid missed deductions, and lodge faster with confidence.

Here are 10 smart things every PAYG employee should do before 30 June 👇

📂 1. Gather Your Income Information

Make sure you know all income sources you’ll need to declare, including:

• Salary and wages

• Bonuses, overtime or allowances

• Interest, dividends or investment income

Most PAYG employees will receive an income statement via myGov, usually finalised by mid-July. [fairwork.gov.au]

🧾 2. Organise Your Receipts and Records

To claim deductions, you must have records to prove your expenses. [my.gov.au]

Start gathering:

• Receipts (digital or paper)

• Invoices

• Bank statements

• Expense summaries

👉 No records = no deduction (simple as that!)

💼 3. Review Work-Related Expenses

Check what you’ve paid out-of-pocket for work this year.

Common deductible expenses include:

• Home office costs

• Phone and internet usage

• Tools and equipment

• Uniforms or protective clothing

• Self-education related to your job

These must be directly related to earning your income to be claimable. [ato.gov.au]

🚗 4. Update Your Car Logbook (If Applicable)

If you use your car for work (not commuting), now is the time to:

• Finalise your logbook

• Record kilometres travelled

• Keep fuel and maintenance receipts

Car expenses are one of the most commonly claimed deductions—but also one of the most audited.

🏡 5. Calculate Your Work From Home Hours

Working from home? Make sure you:

• Keep a record of hours worked

• Choose the right method (fixed rate or actual expenses)

You’ll need a reliable diary or log to support your claim.

🎓 6. Check for Extra Deductions You May Be Missing

Many PAYG employees miss smaller deductions that add up:

• Union fees

• Professional memberships

• Donations to registered charities

• Income protection insurance

• Tax agent fees (from last year)

Even small claims can increase your refund.

💰 7. Consider Personal Super Contributions

If you’ve made (or plan to make) personal super contributions, check:

• Contribution limits

• Whether they are claimable

• Whether a notice of intent needs to be lodged

EOFY is your last chance to action this for the current financial year.

🏥 8. Check Your Private Health Insurance Details

Make sure your details are correct, including:

• Level of cover

• Rebate entitlement

• Medicare Levy Surcharge status

This information is required when lodging your return. [ato.gov.au]

📊 9. Review Last Year’s Tax Return

Take a quick look at your previous tax return:

• What deductions did you claim?

• Did anything change this year?

• Are there any carry-forward amounts?

This helps ensure consistency and avoids missing claims.

✅ 10. Double-Check Your Personal Details

Before lodgement, confirm:

• TFN details

• Bank account information for refunds

• Spouse/dependent details (if relevant)

Incorrect or missing details can delay your refund. [ato.gov.au]

🚀 Final Thoughts on the Tax Checklist - PAYG Employees

EOFY doesn’t have to be stressful.

By getting organised early, you can:

• ✅ Maximise your legitimate deductions

• ✅ Avoid errors or delays

• ✅ Lodge your return faster

• ✅ Potentially receive your refund sooner

Most Australians rush this process — but a little preparation now can make a big difference to your outcome at tax time.

💡 It’s also worth considering using a registered tax agent. A good tax agent can help identify deductions you may not be aware of, ensure everything is lodged correctly, and reduce the risk of errors or ATO scrutiny. For many people, this not only provides peace of mind but can also help maximise your overall refund. Tax Checklist - PAYG Employees

While tax returns are separate to lending, getting your finances in order now

can put you in a stronger position for borrowing, refinancing, or investing later.

If you’re planning your next move, feel free to reach out to the team at Your Lending Experts.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is general in nature and is presented for informative purposes. It is not intended to constitute tax or financial advice, whether general or personal nor is it intended to imply any recommendation or opinion about a financial product. It does not take into consideration your personal situation and may not be relevant to circumstances. Before taking any action, consider your own circumstances and seek professional advice. This content is protected by copyright laws and various other intellectual property laws. It is not to be modified, reproduced or republished without prior written consent.