Private ruling: Work related self-education expenses
Date of advice: 31 August 2020
Published: October 2020
Ruling period: Year Ending 30 June 2017 | Year Ending 30 June 2018 | Year Ending 30 June 2019 | Year Ending 30 June 2020
Date scheme commenced: 1 July 2016

Ruling: Q1: Are you entitled to a self-education deduction for the course fees? | A1: Yes Your course fees paid for by obtaining a loan under FEE-HELP are deductible, as it is accepted the study meets the requirements detailed in ATO ID 2005/26. The course of study is directly related to your current income earning activities and is likely to lead to an increase in your income. Further information about self-education expenses can be found by searching QC 31970 on ato.gov.au.

Relevant facts and circumstances: You are employed. You commenced a course in the 20XX income year. You completed this course in the 20XX income year. You are not receiving Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance to study. You are not receiving a taxable bonded scholarship. You are not being reimbursed by anyone for expenses incurred in relation to your study. You are not being reimbursed for the cost of textbooks. The course will further develop your skills and knowledge of your current employment. In addition, the subjects you will undertake in the course will expand your knowledge in areas relevant to your employment position. The course will develop your confidence as an employee and lead to a promotion. You paid the course fees by obtaining a loan under FEE-HELP, which was paid in full as at 20XX income year.

Relevant legislative provisions: Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 section 8-1 | Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 subsection 26-20(1)