Free Tax Return Calculator (2026-27)
This tax return calculator estimates your refund (or the tax you owe) when you lodge, from your salary, the tax already withheld and your deductions.
How the tax return calculator works
- Taxable income = salary + other income − deductions.
- Tax for the year = income tax (after the low income tax offset) + 2% Medicare levy (+ HELP and surcharge if they apply).
- Refund = tax withheld − tax for the year. A negative result is a tax bill.
Tax refund from deductions on $85,000
| Deductions | Taxable income | Estimated refund |
|---|---|---|
| $500 | $84,500 | $160.00 |
| $1,500 | $83,500 | $480.00 |
| $3,000 | $82,000 | $960.00 |
| $5,000 | $80,000 | $1,600.00 |
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is this tax return calculator?
It applies the ATO's 2026-27 resident tax rates, the low income tax offset, the Medicare levy and (if you tick them) HELP and the Medicare levy surcharge. Enter the tax withheld from your income statement for the closest estimate. The ATO calculates the final amount when you lodge.
Why do I get a tax refund?
Employers withhold tax as if your salary were your only income and you had no deductions. When you claim deductions (work expenses, donations, tax agent fees), your taxable income falls, so some of the tax withheld comes back to you.
When can I lodge my tax return?
The income year ends on 30 June. You can lodge from 1 July; if you lodge yourself through myGov, it is due by 31 October. Registered tax agents can lodge later under their lodgment program.
What is the tax return deadline in Australia?
31 October after the end of the financial year if you lodge yourself. If you use a registered tax agent and are on their client list before 31 October, you usually get a later deadline.