Long lunches. Cafe catch-ups. Weekend getaways.
If you work for a charity or not-for-profit, these experiences could cost you less.
With Entertainment Salary Packaging, you can use part of your pre-tax salary to pay for eligible dining and accommodation expenses. This reduces your taxable income and boosts your take-home pay without changing your lifestyle.
What is the Entertainment Benefit?
Entertainment Salary Packaging lets you package up to $2,650 per FBT year for meals and accommodation enjoyed in a social or entertainment setting.
This benefit is in addition to the general salary packaging cap for your industry sector, giving eligible charity employees even greater tax savings.
Salary Packaging for Charities
What Can You Claim?
Your Entertainment Benefit can be used for a range of dining and travel experiences, including:
- Restaurant meals and drinks consumed on the premises (cafes, restaurants, hotels).
- Catering costs from venues or reception centres where food and drink are the main purpose.
- Takeaway meals from venues that provide dine-in facilities (e.g., McDonald's or local cafes with seating).
- Meals and drinks enjoyed while on holiday.
Expenses not covered:
- Supermarket or bottle shop purchases
- Snack foods or drinks without a meal
- Theatre or movie tickets
- Equipment or seating hire
You can't claim entertainment that has already been reimbursed elsewhere. The ATO regularly audits these claims, so it's important to keep accurate records and avoid "double-dipping".
Learn more about entertainment-related fringe benefits on the ATO website.
Two co-workers enjoying a meal together.
How to Claim
You can claim your Entertainment Benefit online in a few quick steps:
1. Log in to your Remunerator account.
2. Complete the online form.
3. Enter the amount (excluding tips).
4. Attach your receipts or tax invoices.
Each receipt must show:
- The restaurant or venue name
- The total amount and date
Note:
- Credit card or EFTPOST receipts aren't accepted.
- A tax invoice isn't required if the claim is under $82.50.
- For foreign receipts, include a conversion or statement in Australian dollars.
Once verified, Remunerator reimburses your claim directly to your nominated bank account.
Using an Entertainment Card
If you prefer not to keep receipts, you can use the Beyond Bank Entertainment Card.
This Visa card is loaded with your pre-tax funds each pay period and can be used anywhere Visa is accepted for eligible entertainment and accommodation expenses.
At the end of the FBT year, any remaining balance is returned to you through payroll and taxed at your standard PAYG rate.
It's a convenient, cashless way to access your benefit instantly. No waiting and no paperwork.
The Beyond Bank Entertainment Card.
Key Things to Remember
- FBT Reporting: Your Entertainment Benefit is reportable and will appear on your PAYG summary, potentially affecting HECS or Child Care Payments
- Eligibility: Check that your employer participates in salary packaging and allows entertainment expenses for your sector.
- Documentation: Always keep receipts or invoices as supporting evidence.
Start Saving Today
Entertainment Salary Packaging is a simple way to enjoy your lifestyle while saving money.
Learn more about eligible expenses at remunerator.com.au/entertainment or explore the Beyond Bank Entertainment Card to make claiming even easier.