Can I claim items that I've paid for on my company car in my personal tax return?

Question

I have purchased personally, about $3000 worth of accessories that could be classified as 'work related' for my vehicle (which is owned by the company). Is there any way I can claim these items on my personal tax return?

I do not want to get reimbursed by the company as the accessories are predominantly used personally.

What are my options?

Answer 1

There is a form for Un-reimbursed Employee Business Expenses  that you need to use. I simply cannot remember the number. IRS.gov has the entire listing and it will be listed by name also.

Answer 2

The American answer is wrong. This is an Australian answer - no, you can't claim a deduction for those purchases. The "used personally" is the main reason, and there have been some ATO decisions against similar types of claims.

Answer 3

I would say it depends on what the items are. For example a GPS system, well that would obviously be helpful for work also when you don't know where you are going. Also if you drive alot would it not be beneficial to be comfortable when driving etc....Are you using the items when using the car for work purposes etc?

It's realy a fine line isn't it!

My personal (not to be taken as legal advice) advice would be, if you use these items whilst using the car for work, then I would try to claim them. Depends on your definition of used personally is. Like the AC and stereo are technically used for personal use, but they are standard in a company car and for the comfort of the driver, if they broke i'm sure your employer would have them repaired etc...and you use them whilst using the car for work.