Christmas parties are a great time to strengthen your connection with your staff, clients, and suppliers. Unfortunately, there is no good news on the tax consequences of these events.

Christmas parties are treated as “Entertainment” and are generally not tax-deductible. For Christmas parties held on premises where only employees attend, all costs are not deductible, and no GST credits are available. However, the costs are exempt from FBT.

Where Christmas parties are held off premises, if the spend per employee is under $300 per head, it is exempt from FBT as it is considered a minor benefit. However, it is not tax-deductible, and you cannot claim GST credits. Above $300 per head, it is subject to FBT, and you can now claim a tax deduction and the GST credits. This scenario does sound favorable; however, the FBT applicable is approximately the same amount as the tax saved on the deduction and the GST credits you have claimed.

For all expenditure on your clients attending your Christmas Party, it is not tax-deductible, and you cannot claim GST credits. However, it is exempt from FBT.

Christmas parties are more about strengthening relationships. Don’t focus on the tax consequences, just be aware of them.

What are you doing for your Christmas party?