how to write off car for business Page 5

In Australia you can write off a business car three main ways: claim an immediate deduction if you qualify for the ATO’s instant asset write-off (thresholds change), depreciate it over time via the small-business pool, or claim running costs using logbook/cents‑per‑km instead of capital deductions.

Two big caps lurk in the fine print: the ATO car depreciation limit and the luxury car tax thresholds, both of which can cramp your deduction dreams.

Only the business‑use percentage is deductible, so keep a 12‑week logbook and solid records unless you enjoy letters from the ATO.

If you’re GST‑registered you can usually claim input tax credits on the business portion, but watch for FBT if an employee (yes, directors count) gets private use.

Finance matters: a chattel mortgage generally means interest and depreciation claims; a novated lease runs through salary packaging with different rules.

EVs may get special treatment (such as certain FBT concessions), but eligibility and thresholds move—talk to your accountant and check current ATO guidance before you sign anything.