The ATO has increased fuel tax credit rates from 4 February 2019. As fuel tax credit rates are updated regularly, it is important to check the rates each time you lodge a business activity statement (BAS).
Fuel tax credits provide businesses with a credit for the price of fuel used in machinery, plants, equipment, heavy vehicles, or light vehicles travelling on private roads. The amount of credit will depend on when the fuel is acquired, what fuel is used and the activity it is used for.
The changes in fuel tax rates are indexed twice a year, in February and August in line with the consumer price index (CPI). The current rates apply from 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2019.
Fuel tax credits can be claimed on your BAS in the same way as GST credits. To correctly work out the credits you are eligible to claim, you must keep complete and accurate records. Your records must:
- Show the amount of fuel acquired and used in your business and calculations.
- Be in writing, either electronically or on paper.
- Be in English or able to be easily translated.
- Have been kept for a minimum period of five years.
If you claim less than $10,000 in fuel tax credits each year, you can use a simplified method to make claims to the ATO. For further information on claiming fuel tax credits and specific rates, you should consult your registered tax agent.
