Work Clothing and Deductible Expenses

Not all work clothing expenses are deductible. To qualify, the clothing must be unique and necessary for your job, such as a branded uniform or safety gear. Regular workwear like business suits or everyday shoes is not deductible.

Types of Deductible Work Clothing

• Occupation-Specific Clothing: Items like chef whites or nurse scrubs that are specific to a profession.
• Branded Uniforms: Clothing with your employer’s logo that is compulsory to wear.
• Protective Gear: Includes safety boots, high-visibility vests, helmets, and fire-resistant clothing required for your job.
• Laundry Costs: If you wash work-related clothing at home, you can also claim laundry expenses.

To claim these deductions, you must keep accurate records, such as receipts for purchased items and estimates of laundry expenses.

For industry-specific deductions, explore our guides tailored for professions like healthcare, retail, and hospitality workers.

FAQs

Can I claim deductions for ordinary clothing worn to work?

No, regular clothing such as suits or office attire is not deductible, even if required by your employer. Only occupation-specific, branded, or protective clothing qualifies.

How do I calculate laundry expenses?

You can claim $1 per load if the washing includes only work-related clothing, or 50 cents per load if mixed with other laundry. Keep a reasonable estimate or written records.