If you work in healthcare, chances are you’ve spent a lot on scrubs over the year… and naturally, the question comes up:

“Can I claim these on tax?”

Short answer: usually, yes.

But (because it’s the ATO), there are a few rules you need to know before you add them to your return.

In many cases, scrubs are tax deductible in Australia. In Australia, tax deductible scrubs are more common than people think, but there are a few rules to follow.

According to the Australian Taxation Office, you can claim work-related clothing if it falls into specific categories like:

● Occupation-specific clothing
● Protective clothing
● Compulsory uniforms

Scrubs generally tick at least one of these boxes, which is why most healthcare workers can claim them.

Scrubs aren’t everyday clothing.
They’re specific to healthcare roles, not something you’d wear outside work, and that’s exactly why they’re usually claimable.

● Linked directly to medical professions

● Not considered general wear

● Recognised as a professional uniform

That’s what separates them from things like basic tees, leggings, or socks, even if you wear those to work.

To claim your scrubs, they generally need to meet at least one of the ATO’s criteria:

1. They identify you as a healthcare professional

Scrubs are widely recognised as medical attire, so this is usually straightforward.

2. They’re required for your role

If you're expected or required to wear scrubs, you’re in an extremely strong position to claim them.

This is where people trip up.

You generally cannot claim:

● Standard socks, underwear, or base layers

● Plain clothing worn under scrubs

● Everyday items that could be worn outside work

● Anything your employer paid for or reimbursed

Even if you only use those items at work, the ATO still considers them “conventional clothing.”...

Yep! And this one’s often overlooked. You may be able to claim costs related to caring for your uniform, including:

● Laundry

● Dry cleaning

● Ironing

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Just make sure:

● You paid for it yourself

● You weren’t reimbursed

● You keep reasonable records

If you’re planning to include scrubs in your tax return:

● Keep your receipts
● Track your spending across the year
● Be able to show the items were work-related 

The ATO can ask for proof, so it’s worth staying organised.

While we’re at it, you might also be eligible to claim things like:

● Registration fees
● Work equipment (e.g. stethoscopes)
● Some overtime meal expenses

(Always depends on your situation, of course.)

Healthcare work is demanding enough... Your tax return shouldn’t be.

If you’re buying your own scrubs, there’s a very good chance you’re entitled to claim them. Just make sure you meet the criteria and keep proper records. 

Another alternative is to link all your scrub purchases with our membership program, so just before tax time, we can print them all out for you!

If you’re unsure, it’s always worth checking with a tax professional. We just make scrubs, after all!