Tax deductions for hairdressers & beauty therapists
As a hairdresser or beauty therapist you can generally claim the scissors and tools you buy, products used in your work, and self-education that builds your skills.
A lot of the chair is self-funded — blades, tools, and staying current with technique. Here’s what usually counts.
The three rules for any claim
- You paid for it yourself and weren’t reimbursed.
- It directly relates to earning your income.
- You have a record — a receipt, invoice or bank statement.
What you can usually claim
Scissors, tools and equipment
Scissors, clippers, dryers, brushes and other tools you buy for work. Higher-cost equipment may be claimed over its effective life.
Products used in your work
Colours, styling products and consumables you buy and use on clients (as opposed to reselling), where you’re not reimbursed.
Self-education and memberships
Technique courses and industry events that build on your current skills, plus relevant industry association memberships.
General information, not personal tax advice. What you can claim depends on your circumstances — check with the ATO or a registered tax agent, and keep records for every claim.
Keep in mind
- Your own haircuts, grooming or make-up.
- Everyday clothing worn to the salon.
- Products the salon supplies.
Take it further
Your income tax, Medicare levy and take-home pay on any salary.
AI2Fin for sole traders →Split business from personal automatically and never miss a deduction.
Depreciation (decline in value) →Claiming the cost of a big asset gradually over its life.
Sole trader →The simplest business structure — you and the business are one.
Hairdressers & beauty therapists — common questions
Can I claim my own hair and grooming?
Generally no — grooming is treated as private even in an image-focused job. Tools and products you buy to use on clients are different. This is general information, not personal tax advice — what you can claim depends on your circumstances, so check with the ATO or a registered tax agent, and keep records to back up every claim.
Can I claim my scissors?
Yes — tools you buy yourself for work are generally deductible, with more expensive items claimed over their effective life. This is general information, not personal tax advice — what you can claim depends on your circumstances, so check with the ATO or a registered tax agent, and keep records to back up every claim.
Deductions for other occupations
See all occupations.
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