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Which individuals can claim the Education Tax Offset ?

To be eligible to claim the Education Tax Offset an individual must meet the following 3 conditions:

1. The claimant has received or is entitled to receive Family Tax Benefit Part A in respect of a child. Thus the rebate must be claimed by the parent registered for Family Tax Benefits. If for example the parent that is registered for FTB does not need to lodge a tax return then they must complete a stand alone Education Tax Offset claim form – it cannot be transferred to the other parent to claim on their tax return.
2. The child is enrolled in a primary or secondary school course.
3. Eligible education expenses are incurred in respect of the child.

Eligible claimants will be able to claim the following tax offset amount for 2009:

• A 50% tax offset for up to $750 of eligible education expenses incurred for each child attending primary school ( i.e., a refund of up to 50% x $750 = $375 per primary school child )
• A 50% tax offset for up to $1500 of eligible education expenses incurred for each child attending secondary school ( i.e., a refund of up to 50% x $1500 = $750 per secondary school child )

Only the following prescribed education expenses can qualify for the tax offset:

• Computers – acquiring (i.e. purchase, hire-purchase or lease), repairing & running a computer (incl a laptop)
• Computer related equipment – Printers, USB flash drives.
• Home Internet – establishing & maintaining home internet connection. Apportioned between the family work related use, private use and school educational use.
• Computer software
• School stationery, textbooks, etc – including paper based school learning material, study guides and photocopying.
• Tools of Trade – tools purchased by a child completing a school-based apprenticeship.

Receipts must be kept.

Education related expenses not eligible for tax offset:

School fees - Tuition Fees - School subject levies (e.g., consumables for woodwork, art or home science)

School uniform - School Building Levies - Camps & excursions – Library book fees – Transport costs

Sporting equipment – School photos – Membership fees – Musical instruments – Donations

Computer games / consoles – Expenses already claimed as a tax deduction by other family members.

I confirm that I am eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part A and I understand that the Australian Tax Office may amend my tax return at a later date if they determine that I am not eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part A:

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Claimant