On a normal workday, the answer to this one is a big NO.
That means NO Tax Deduction.
The ATO says that your lunch is a private expense. And the ATO comes to that conclusion with a simple premise….
You need to eat to live. Therefore you eating your lunch (for example) has nothing to do with whether you are working or not.
If, however, you are traveling away from home overnight for work (and your employer doesn’t reimburse you) then you can claim the cost of the meal.
If your employer pays you an allowance to cover this meal, the allowance will be included as income on your tax return, and you can make a claim for the meal as an expense.
Make sure you keep a record of the cost so you can claim it. (There is a special rule about not needing receipts if you spend under the ATO’s reasonable rate, and received an allowance, but receipts are always best)
Don’t forget that keeping clear records, receipts, and logbooks will always help you receive the best possible tax refund.
To book an appointment please call us on 07 3881 3029 or you can email us at admin@gotax.biz