Bookkeeper

Tax advice for independent bookkeepers in Australia.

Allowable Expenses

• Software — Xero, MYOB, and QuickBooks subscriptions.
• Professional Bodies — ICB or AAT membership fees.
• Home Office — Utilities and workspace costs.
• Insurance — Professional indemnity insurance (required for BAS agents).

Tax Tips

• BAS Agent registration fees are deductible.
• Claim the business portion of your phone and internet.
• Keep track of all professional development and training.
• Maintain clear time records for your bookkeeping clients — if you are an employee of some clients and a contractor for others, the ATO applies different rules to each relationship for tax and super purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my BAS agent fee deductible?

Yes, licensing and registration fees are deductible.

Can I claim for Xero?

Yes, software used for your work is deductible.

Do I need to hold professional indemnity insurance as a BAS agent?

Yes. The Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) requires registered BAS agents to hold professional indemnity insurance that meets TPB requirements. The insurance premium is a fully deductible business expense.

Can I deduct the cost of CPD required to maintain my BAS agent registration?

Yes. The TPB requires BAS agents to complete ongoing CPD each registration period. All costs directly associated with CPD — course fees, webinars, professional reading subscriptions, and event attendance — are deductible as professional development expenses.