Tax Return Calculator 2026–27
Estimate your tax refund, or how much tax you'll owe, for the 2026–27 financial year.
Printed from ClearCalc (clearcalc.com.au/tax-return-calculator/). Estimates only, not financial advice.
How your refund is worked out
During the year your employer withholds tax from each pay using the ATO's tax tables. Your tax return compares that with the tax you actually owe on your taxable income, which is your income minus your deductions. If more was withheld than you owe, you get the difference back as a refund.
The calculation is: tax withheld − (income tax − offsets + Medicare levy + HELP repayment + any surcharge).
The new $1,000 instant deduction
From the 2026–27 income year, workers can claim a flat $1,000 deduction for work-related expenses without keeping receipts. It was legislated in June 2026, and you'll claim it in the 2026–27 return you lodge from July 2027. If your actual work expenses are higher, you can itemise them instead. Other deductions, such as gifts to charity and tax agent fees, can still be claimed on top. The calculator uses whichever work deduction is higher.
2026–27 resident tax rates
| Taxable income | Tax on this income |
|---|---|
| $0 – $18,200 | Nil |
| $18,201 – $45,000 | 15c for each $1 over $18,200 |
| $45,001 – $135,000 | $4,020 plus 30c for each $1 over $45,000 |
| $135,001 – $190,000 | $31,020 plus 37c for each $1 over $135,000 |
| $190,001 and over | $51,370 plus 45c for each $1 over $190,000 |
The 2% Medicare levy is added on top, and the low income tax offset of up to $700 reduces tax for incomes under $66,667. See all 2026–27 tax rates.
Common reasons for a smaller refund
- Two jobs at once. If both employers apply the tax-free threshold, too little tax is withheld.
- Interest, rent or side income that had no tax withheld.
- A HECS-HELP debt, if your employer didn't know about it.
- No private hospital cover on an income over $105,000, which brings the Medicare levy surcharge.
Frequently asked questions
When can I lodge my 2026–27 tax return?
From 1 July 2027. If you lodge yourself through myGov, it's due by 31 October 2027. Using a registered tax agent usually gives you more time.
How much tax refund will I get on $80,000?
If your employer withheld tax correctly and you have no other income or deductions, your refund will be small, often a few hundred dollars or less. The withholding tables are designed to roughly match the tax you owe. Deductions, including the new $1,000 instant deduction, are what create most refunds.
Can I claim the $1,000 deduction and my other deductions?
You choose either the $1,000 instant deduction or your itemised work-related expenses. Non-work deductions such as donations, tax agent fees and income protection insurance can still be claimed as well.
Is this an official ATO calculator?
No. It's an estimate based on the 2026–27 rates for Australian residents. Franking credits, offsets such as the seniors and pensioners offset, and special income types aren't included. Use the ATO's tools or a registered tax agent for your actual return.
Last reviewed October 2026. This calculator gives an estimate for general information only. Check important figures with the relevant government agency or a licensed professional.