It is good to see the ATO act quickly and decisively regarding deductions on working from home and I welcome the arrangements which have now been put in place for expenses incurred from March 1 to June 30 this year.

The ATO has introduced ‘the short cut deduction’ which allows those working from home to claim a rate of 80 cents per hour, meaning workers only need to record the number of hours they have worked from home, rather than needing to calculate specific running expenses.

This will make it much simpler for people to claim, particularly for those who are new to this working arrangement.

However the standard procedure of making home claims is still available if people wish to do so.

For further information about these new arrangements visit: www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Income-and-deductions/Deductions-you-can-claim/Home-office-expenses

Anyone requiring urgent assistance with tax affairs due to COVID-19 can also contact the ATO’s Emergency Support Infoline 1800 806 218.