Key Takeaways
- Generally, laundry for non-compulsory uniforms is NOT tax-deductible.
- They must be registered with "AusIndustry" to be cliamable.
- Laundry of standard business casual or office wear is NOT cliamable.
- If the uniform is mandatory, you can claim the laundry.
The Short Answer
No, not for most people. The ATO generally treats the cost of laundry and dry cleaning for "non-compulsory" work uniforms as a private expense. This means you cannot claim laundry for standard business casual or office wear, even if your employer "requires" you to look professional.
Who CAN Claim?
A deduction is only available if your non-compulsory uniform has been registered with "AusIndustry." This means your employer has officially notified the government of the uniform's branding and design features. If your non-compulsory uniform is not on that register, you cannot claim its laundry.
Standard Laundry Allowance
Where a uniform IS cliamable (mandatory or registered non-compulsory), you can claim $1 per load for work-only clothing or $0.50 per load if combined with other clothes. If your total laundry claim is under $150, you don't need complicated receipts, but you should keep a simple diary of your wash loads for a month.
Professional and Business Wear
Many taxpayers try to claim laundry for their standard office suits or professional dresses. The ATO's rule is simple: if the clothing is "conventional" and could be worn outside of work, it is not a uniform. Therefore, laundry or dry cleaning for standard business wear is 100% private and cannot be claimed.
The 2026 Audit Ready Tip
Confirm the status of your uniform with your employer. If you're an employee, ensure your employer has provided you with a copy of their AusIndustry registration letter for any non-compulsory uniform you wish to claim laundry for.
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