Industry Advice on Finance, Business & Tax for the New Zealand Market

Company cars often come under extra scrutiny during the Christmas period, especially when used privately. Understanding how Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) applies during holidays is essential to avoid unexpected costs. This article explains key FBT rules, exemptions, and how to stay compliant when company vehicles are used over the festive season.

‘Tis the season of giving! But if you’re planning to give your clients and/or employees a present this year, you should temper your generosity of spirit with the correct tax treatment of gifts for employees. After all, you wouldn’t want the IRD to put you on its naughty list… here’s what you need to know:

From 1 April 2017, tax must be deducted from all payments made to contractors working under a ‘labour hire arrangement’ for a labour hire business. This change will impact many businesses and different industries such as: employment agencies, ‘temp’ agencies, on-hire businesses as well as the wider recruitment, IT and healthcare industries.

In 2015, the Tax Department introduced a ‘bright-line test’ for the sale of residential property. If you buy and sell a property within two years, this test is used to determine if you are required to pay tax on the profit. We explain how the bright-line test works and the responsibilities of residential property owners.

Property taxation is currently a hot area of focus for the Tax Department. If you’re buying, selling or renting property in New Zealand, it’s important to understand how property taxation works and your responsibilities as a business owner.

If you are moving to New Zealand, or are returning to New Zealand from overseas, then you could qualify for the transitional tax resident exemption. We explain what this means and how it impacts your tax obligations.

As the tax landscape continues to change with increased complexity of tax regulation both domestically and overseas, the management of tax is fast becoming a necessary part of today’s advisory board agendas. Graham Lawrence gives some important advice to business owners who want to get it right.

Many businesses overlook the importance of Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT), risking profitability due to compliance errors. Proper FBT treatment is a strategic responsibility for business leaders, especially as recent Tax Department reviews signal stricter enforcement.

The 2016 Taxation Act introduces a provision allowing companies involved in intensive R&D to cash out tax losses tied to research expenditures. This aligns with the government’s Business Growth Agenda, aimed at promoting innovation as a key driver for economic progress.

At a time when the tax landscape continues to change, it appears an old established rule dating back to the 90’s has become one of the focuses of the New Zealand Tax Department’s current compliance programme.

New property tax compliance regulations have been introduced for residential property purchasers, potentially leading to scrutiny from the Tax Department for some taxpayers. As we assess these changes, it's crucial to understand their implications and the anticipated effects moving forward.

Making savings with your FBT can save you a few thousand a year – and being smart around how you make available company vehicles to employees is one option. Graham Lawrence reports.