Can You Claim Your Resume as a Tax Deduction?
Disclaimer
This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial or tax advice. Tax laws and individual circumstances vary. Always refer directly to guidance from the Australian Taxation Office or speak with a registered tax agent/accountant before lodging your return or claiming deductions.
The previous version of this this article is one of the most popular articles on my website, so with tax time approaching, I wanted to recreate it with updated tips and guidance. If you have ever paid for a professional resume service, you may be wondering whether it is tax deductible. The answer is often yes, but it depends on your employment situation and the type of work you are pursuing.
This article explains how resume costs, job search expenses, and related costs can be claimed as a deduction, along with practical tips to maximise your tax benefit.
What the ATO Says About Resume Deductions
According to the Australian Taxation Office, you can generally claim deductions for job search expenses if:
You are currently employed
You are looking for a new job in the same occupation
The expense directly relates to earning your income
This can include:
Professional resume writing or editing services
Resume updates or reformatting
Printing or stationery for your resume
Online job search platforms or application costs
Postage and delivery costs for job applications
When Resume Expenses Are Not Deductible
You cannot claim resume or job search expenses if:
You are seeking your first ever job
You are unemployed at the time of the expense
You are changing to a completely different occupation
Example:
If you are a support worker updating your resume for a similar support role, this may be deductible
If you are a retail assistant retraining to become a nurse, it is generally not deductible because it relates to a new occupation
How to Determine “Same Occupation”
The ATO focuses on whether you are staying within the same income earning field, not whether your job title is exactly the same.
Examples of deductible scenarios:
Administrator applying for a senior administration role
Sales assistant applying for another sales position
Support worker applying for a similar support role
Tip: If you are unsure whether your work is considered the same occupation, check with a registered tax agent to avoid mistakes.
How to Claim Resume and Job Search Expenses
To ensure your claim is valid:
Keep clear invoices or receipts showing the service and date
Confirm you were not reimbursed by your employer
Include the expenses under work related deductions when lodging your tax return
Keep records of any job applications you submitted using the resume
Extra tip: Even small costs can add up, so track them carefully to maximise your claim.
Extra Tips for Tax Time
Combine your job search and career development expenses in one record
Only claim expenses directly related to your current occupation
Keep a digital folder of receipts, invoices, and online job application confirmations
If you hire a professional resume writer, keep notes on how the service was tailored to your occupation
You may also be able to claim expenses for LinkedIn premium subscriptions or other online career tools if they are strictly used for your current field
Why Investing in a Professional Resume Pays Off
Beyond the tax deduction, a professionally written resume can:
Increase your chances of securing interviews
Highlight measurable achievements and skills
Present you clearly within your industry
Give you a competitive edge in a tight job market
A resume is not just a document, it is a strategic marketing tool for your career.
Final Thoughts
With tax time approaching, it is worth reviewing your expenses. If you are employed and seeking roles in the same occupation, your resume costs and job search expenses may qualify as a tax deduction.
Every situation is unique, so check your eligibility carefully or consult a registered tax agent. Keep your receipts, track your applications, and take full advantage of any legitimate work related deductions.
If you would like support creating a professional resume that positions you confidently in your industry, I would be delighted to help.