Tradie EOFY Checklist — What to Do Before June 30

June 30 is the most important date on a tradie's financial calendar. What you do in the final weeks of the financial year can legally save you thousands in tax — and what you forget can cost you just as much. Here's your complete EOFY checklist.

What to Buy Before June 30

Any tool, equipment or business item you buy before June 30 can be claimed as a deduction in this financial year, reducing your current-year tax bill. Items bought on July 1 or later go in next year's return.

If you're planning to buy tools, a new phone, software, safety gear or any other business equipment — buy it before June 30. Even if it arrives in July, the purchase date is what matters for most items.

Make Your Super Contribution Before June 30

This is the biggest legal tax reduction most tradies ignore. As a self-employed tradie, you can contribute to super and claim the full amount as a tax deduction — up to the concessional cap of $30,000 for 2025–26.

The contribution must be received by your super fund before June 30. Don't leave it until June 29 — bank processing times mean it may not arrive in time. Lodge by June 25 to be safe.

A $15,000 super contribution for a tradie earning $100,000 saves approximately $4,875 in income tax. That money goes into your retirement account instead of the ATO's — it's still yours.

Chase Outstanding Invoices (Or Hold Them)

Cash-basis taxpayers (most small tradies) are taxed on income when they receive it, not when they invoice. This gives you some control:

• Had a high-income year? Consider delaying sending large invoices until after July 1 — that income lands in next year's return at potentially a lower rate.
• Expecting a lower income year? Chase all outstanding invoices hard before June 30 to maximise this year's income at your current lower rate.

Talk to your accountant about which strategy suits your situation — it varies by individual circumstances.

Gather All Receipts and Records

Before you send anything to your accountant, collect:

• All tool and equipment receipts for the year
• Fuel receipts and vehicle service records
• Licence and registration payment receipts
• Insurance premium notices
• Phone and internet bills (noting work-use %)
• Any training or course receipts
• Uniform and PPE purchase receipts

Using Dext throughout the year means this step is already done — everything's captured and categorised. If you've been storing paper receipts, spend a Saturday afternoon photographing them all now.

Finalise Your Vehicle Logbook

If you're using the logbook method, make sure your 12-week logbook is complete and signed. Calculate your business-use percentage and apply it to your total annual vehicle costs. Your accountant needs the logbook, total kilometres driven for the year, and all vehicle expense records.

Didn't keep a logbook this year? The cents-per-kilometre method (88c/km up to 5,000km) doesn't require one. You can switch between methods each year.

What to Give Your Accountant