Filling the pot: Tax deductions for chefs and cooks

Tax deductions for chefs and cooks are numerous – but do you know what you can claim on your tax return?

Look no further, we’ve got you covered.

Most of us have a love affair with food, so the fabulous people who create the dishes in our favourite cafes and restaurants inevitably become our absolute heroes. From flamboyant gastronomes to humble home style cooks, these food artistes can literally take us back in time, surprise us, inspire us and above all, make us truly happy.

So what can we do for all of you chefs and cooks out there who provide the rest of us with such joy? Well perhaps we can help you buy that divine Alba white truffle or much longed for Wusthof or Shun knife set. How? By making sure your tax refund is as fat as it can be!

Exploring tax deductions for chefs and cooks

Every year, many of our chefs and cooks pay far too much tax. Many of the work-related purchases and costs that add up through the year can be claimed on your tax return – but so many items get skipped or forgotten.

Let’s start with the most common tax deductions for you…

Cooking Equipment:

You can’t cook anything without good cooking equipment, and good equipment in the kitchen never comes cheap. Some chefs buy their own gear and if that’s you, make sure you don’t forget to claim any purchase, on your return:

• Knives and sharpeners
• General hand held cooking utensils (eg. Spatulas, wooden spoons etc.)
• Graters, slicers and mandolins
• Electrical appliances (eg. Sous-vide cookers, food processors etc.)
• Saucepans and steamers
• Cooking dishes
• Baking trays and tins
• Piping equipment
• Crockery and glassware
• Chopping boards