COVID-19 vaccination incentives and rewards

FBT consequences of providing non-cash benefits

The ATO has reminded employers to consider their tax and super obligations when employees are provided with incentives or rewards for getting their COVID-19 vaccination.

When employees are provided a cash payment, including paid leave for employees to get their COVID-19 vaccination (or additional paid leave to recover from any vaccination side effects), employers should withhold PAYG withholding and make super contributions on the amount.

Furthermore, the payment must be reported to the ATO via Single Touch Payroll (‘STP’) as part of the employee’s salary or wage.

On the other hand, employers must consider the FBT consequences of providing non-cash benefits as an incentive for their employees to get vaccinated.

Such benefits may include:

  • Goods or services provided to the employee.
  • Vouchers and gift cards.
  • Prizes won by an employee in a competition (e.g. a raffle).

Note that certain FBT exemptions and reductions may apply in some circumstances.

For example, if an employer provides or pays for an employee’s transport to get their COVID-19 vaccination, there is generally no FBT payable.

Related reading

https://www.omnisgroup.com.au/business-accounting-taxation/fbt-rates-and-thresholds-for-the-2021-22-fbt-year/

Justin Flavel

Managing Director

Justin’s experience spans across 20 years in accounting, financial analysis and general business practice.

Although born and bred on the land, Justin’s interest was more in spreadsheets, ledgers, and finance which led him to attend university. In 1992, Justin graduated with a Bachelor of Business majoring in Accounting and Finance. As well as qualifying as a CPA member and becoming a Fellow of the Taxation Institute of Australia, he began gaining practical experience in small and mid-tier accounting practices.

During the late 90s, Justin decided to expand his horizons and travel through Europe. It was during this time that he seized the opportunity to expand his knowledge on the workings of large organisations by taking on roles in multinational corporations.

Today, Justin’s passion is in facilitating businesses to grow and evolve. His focus is on acting in the role of business mentor to help clients develop the full potential of their businesses. He joins clients on their unique journey, and provides the tools and knowledge they need along the way to make the right decisions.

Justin’s aim for his clients parallels his own philosophy and personal journey—focusing on his own career growth and business success while maintaining balance in his life with his wife and three daughters.

Omnis Group Managing Director - Justin Flavel