Tax return calculator
Estimate your tax refund before you lodge. Enter the figures from your income statement in myGov and your deductions to see whether you'll get money back or owe the ATO.
- ATO rates for 2026-27
- Includes HECS, Medicare & super
- Private: nothing leaves your browser
How your tax refund is calculated
Refund = tax withheld − (tax on taxable income − offsets + Medicare levy + HELP)
Worked example (2025-26)
- Salary $85,000, deductions $1,500, so taxable income is $83,500.
- Tax on $83,500 at 2025-26 rates: $15,838. Medicare levy: $1,670. Total: $17,508.
- Tax withheld by your employer: $18,200.
- Estimated refund: $18,200 − $17,508 = $692.
Common deductions
- Work from home: 70 cents per hour using the fixed rate method, with a record of your hours.
- Work-related car expenses: cents per kilometre (up to 5,000 km) or the logbook method.
- Tools, equipment and uniforms you need for work.
- Self-education directly related to your current job.
- Donations of $2 or more to registered charities.
- Tax agent fees from last year.
You need records for every deduction, and you can’t claim anything your employer reimbursed.
Before you lodge
Wait until your income statement in myGov is marked “Tax ready” (usually by late July), and check that pre-filled interest, dividends and private health information is complete.
Frequently asked questions
How do I estimate my tax refund?
Work out the tax you owe on your taxable income (income minus deductions), add the Medicare levy and any HELP repayment, then subtract the tax already withheld. A positive result is your refund.
When can I lodge my 2025-26 tax return?
From 1 July 2026. If you lodge yourself through myGov, the deadline is 31 October 2026. Tax agents can lodge later under their lodgement program.
Why do I owe tax this year?
Common reasons: two jobs both claiming the tax-free threshold, a HECS debt not set up with your employer, investment income or a capital gain, or not enough tax withheld from a bonus.
How much will my deductions save me?
Each dollar of deductions saves tax at your marginal rate. On $85,000 a year, $1,500 of deductions saves $480 (32% including Medicare).
Is this the same as the ATO simple tax calculator?
It uses the same tax rates, offsets and levies but adds HECS and the Medicare levy surcharge, and shows your refund directly.
Related calculators
Estimates only, using ATO resident tax rates, the low income tax offset, Medicare levy, Medicare levy surcharge and HELP thresholds for each year. 2027-28 uses the legislated 14% rate with other thresholds carried forward. Your actual tax depends on your full circumstances; check with the ATO or a registered tax agent. Last reviewed 14 October 2026.