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FBT is a tax applied to certain benefits that employers provide to their employees or their employees’ associates (such as family members) in addition to their salary or wages. Employers are responsible for paying FBT on the benefits they offer employees.

Employers are required to pay FBT on the taxable value of fringe benefits, which is usually based on the cost of providing the benefit. The FBT rate is generally the same as the top marginal tax rate for individuals, which may change each year. The FBT year is 1 April – 31 March and at the time of publication the FBT rate is 47%.

Who receives fringe benefits?

FBT applies to your employees, their families or other associates.
When calculating FBT, an employee includes:

A current, future or past employee

A Company Director

Beneficiary of a trust who works in the business

If you are a sole trader, or a Partner in a Partnership you are not an employee of the business and FBT does not apply to you.

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Calculating Fringe Benefit Tax

Employers are required to self-assess their amount of FBT based on grossing up the taxable value of the benefits you’ve provided. This is a notoriously complicated process and its best to get assistance from an accountant. Give Retinue a call to find out how we can help you.

Fringe Benefit Exemptions

Some items are exempt from fringe benefits tax if they are primarily used for work purposes. These include:

Portable electronic devices

Computer software

Protective clothing

Briefcases

Tools of trade

Certain additional fringe benefits may be excluded when calculating whether an employee’s fringe benefits amount if they meet the definition of minor benefits and have a notional taxable value of less than $300.

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FAQ

What is Fringe Benefits Tax?

Fringe Benefits Tax is a tax paid by employers on certain benefits provided to employees or their associates, in addition to their salary or wages. These benefits can include cars, entertainment, or housing.

Common fringe benefits that attract FBT include company cars, private use of business assets, expense reimbursements, and entertainment such as meals and tickets to events.

Employers are responsible for paying FBT, not employees. The tax is calculated based on the taxable value of the fringe benefits provided during the FBT year, which runs from April 1 to March 31.

FBT is calculated based on the taxable value of the fringe benefits provided. Employers must use either the statutory method or operating cost method for car benefits and other methods for other benefits.

Certain benefits, such as work-related items (e.g., laptops or tools), are exempt from FBT if they meet specific conditions. Additionally, some small businesses and not-for-profits may qualify for FBT concessions.

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