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This edited version has been archived due to the length of time since original publication.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.

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Edited version of your written advice

Authorisation Number: 1051212864962

Date of advice: 10 April 2017

Ruling

Subject: Income tax treatment of expense payment fringe benefits

Question 1

Are the reimbursements I receive from my employer included in my assessable income?

Answer

No.

This ruling applies for the following periods:

Year ended 30 June 20ZZ

The scheme commences on:

1 July 20YY

Relevant facts and circumstances

This ruling is based on the facts stated in the description of the scheme that is set out below. If your circumstances are materially different from these facts, this ruling has no effect and you cannot rely on it. The fact sheet has more information about relying on your private ruling.

    ● You commenced employment with your employer in 20XX.

    ● Your employer reimbursed you for the following expenses incurred by you: (documented)

Expense

Amount ($)

Lenders Mortgage Insurance on construction loan for new residence

XX,XXX

Selling fees (old residence)

XX,XXX

Advertising (old residence)

XXX

Settlement agents fees (old residence)

XXX

Disbursements (old residence)

XX

Removal costs

X,XXX

Stamp duty (new residence)

XX,XXX

Registration of transfer (new residence)

XXX

Settlement agent fee (new residence)

XXX

Disbursements enquiry fees (new residence)

XXX

Refinancing fees from original lender (new residence)

XXX

Refinancing fees from replacement lender (new residence)

XXX

Reasons for decision

Fringe benefits and exempt fringe benefits are non-assessable non-exempt income under section 23L of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 (Cth).

Fringe benefits include expense payment fringe benefits. Under sections 20 and 136 of the Fringe Benefits Tax Assessment Act 1986 (Cth), an expense payment fringe benefit includes a reimbursement of expenditure incurred by the recipient where that reimbursement is in respect of the recipient's employment.

In your case, your employer has reimbursed you for specific expenses incurred by you. Therefore, the reimbursements constitute expense payment fringe benefits which are, therefore, excluded from your assessable income for income tax purposes.