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This edited version has been archived due to the length of time since original publication. It should not be regarded as indicative of the ATO's current views. The law may have changed since original publication, and views in the edited version may also be affected by subsequent precedents and new approaches to the application of the law.

You cannot rely on this record in your tax affairs. It is not binding and provides you with no protection (including from any underpaid tax, penalty or interest). In addition, this record is not an authority for the purposes of establishing a reasonably arguable position for you to apply to your own circumstances. For more information on the status of edited versions of private advice and reasons we publish them, see PS LA 2008/4.

Edited version of your written advice

Authorisation Number: 1051453184390

Date of advice: 12 November 2018

Ruling

Subject: Legal expenses

Question 1

Are the legal expenses incurred for advice and advocacy to gain a return to work opportunity from my employer deductible?

Answer 1

Yes. Having considered your circumstances, you are entitled to a deduction under section 8-1 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997).

Question

Are your out of pocket legal expenses incurred to apply to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) to review the agency’s decision deductible?

Answer

Yes. Having considered your circumstances, you are entitled to a deduction under section 8-1 of the ITAA 1997, for a portion of the legal fees you incurred. You cannot claim a deduction for the ‘‘reasonable party/party costs and disbursements’ as referred to in the AAT decision as these are not your out of pocket expenses.

This ruling applies for the following periods:

Year ending 30 June 20XX

Year ending 30 June 20XX

Year ending 30 June 20XX

The scheme commences on:

1 July 20XX

Relevant facts and circumstances

Relevant legislative provisions

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 section 8-1


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