Can ABN tradies claim a laptop, tools or equipment under instant asset write-off?

Can ABN tradies use the instant asset write-off?

Eligible small businesses may be able to immediately deduct the business-use portion of eligible assets under the instant asset write-off rules, subject to the threshold and simplified depreciation rules.

Last updated: 7 July 2026. General information for Australian tradies. Not personal tax advice.

The useful search answer

For 2025-26, the ATO lists a $20,000 instant asset write-off limit for eligible businesses with aggregated turnover under $10 million that use simplified depreciation rules. Check eligibility before relying on it.

Business-use portion matters

If a laptop, phone, printer or tool is partly private, only the business-use portion belongs in the claim. Keep notes showing how you worked out the percentage.

When depreciation may still apply

Assets that do not qualify for immediate deduction, or amounts over the relevant threshold, may need to go through depreciation or the small business pool.

Do not mix with PAYG fields

ABN business asset claims should stay in ABN mode. PAYG employee tool claims use different work-related deduction rules.

Where to enter it in TradieCalc

Use ABN mode and enter the business-use amount under Laptop / PC / tablet, Printer / scanner, Office furniture or the relevant business expense field.

Open the calculator