Claiming tax deductions on super contributions

Not only can you help boost your super by adding your own personal after-tax contributions1, you can also claim a tax deduction on them if you meet eligibility criteria.

Are you eligible to claim a tax deduction

You can claim a tax deduction for your personal contributions if:

  • You haven't opened an account-based pension using part or all of the contributions for which you intend to claim a tax deduction,
  • You’re a member of AustralianSuper and your contributions are still in your super account,
  • You haven’t lodged an application to split the contribution for which you intend to claim a deduction (this must be done after you give us your notice of intent to claim a deduction),
  • The contributions have not been released under the First Home Super Saver (FHSS) scheme, and
  • You meet the work test or work test exemption if you’re aged between 67 and 75 years2.

Potential benefits of claiming a tax deduction

Reduce your taxable income

By claiming a deduction for personal super contributions, you could reduce your taxable income and depending on your income, potentially pay less tax overall.

Boost your retirement savings

By making personal contributions to your super and claiming a deduction, you can boost your retirement savings.

How much you can claim

You have the option to claim all or part of your personal contributions as a tax deduction, keeping the concessional contribution cap in mind.
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How to claim your tax deduction

Jane contributes $4,000 to her super on 30 April. Jane mustsubmit her claim for a tax deduction before the earlier of lodging her tax return and 30 June of the following financial year in which the personal contributions were made. 

Important considerations

Certain contributions cannot be claimed as tax deductions:

If you’re claiming a deduction for an after-tax super contribution, the contribution will count towards your concessional contributions cap ($30,000 per year).

Note that you may be eligible to contribute more if you have unused concessional contributions from previous financial years.

For more information on eligibility criteria for contributions that can be claimed as tax deductions and the latest tax rates, visit ato.gov.au

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