Can You Claim Op Shop Donations or Purchases on Tax? (2026)

If you’re an op shopper in Australia, you might wonder if you can claim your donations or purchases on your tax return. The tax rules can be complex, and it’s important to understand what is deductible. Can you claim op shop purchases on tax? The answer depends on several factors.

While many people have good intentions, not all op shop transactions are tax-deductible. This guide looks at the tax rules for op shop donations and purchases in Australia.

Tax deductions for op shop donations

In Australia, you can generally claim a tax deduction for donating items to a registered charity. For a donation to be tax-deductible, the charity must be a “deductible gift recipient” (DGR). Most of the top-rated op shop chains like Salvos and Vinnies are DGRs.

When it comes to donating clothes or household goods, the deduction is usually based on the market value of the items. However, the rules for valuing these items can be difficult. It’s important to keep a list of the items you’ve donated and, if possible, get a receipt from the charity. For more details on the tax rules, see the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website.

Tax deductions for op shop purchases

When it comes to op shop purchases, the rules are different. Generally, you cannot claim a tax deduction for buying second-hand items from an op shop. This is because you are receiving something in exchange for your money, so it is not considered a “gift.”

However, there are some exceptions for business-related purchases. If you’re a small business owner or a freelancer and you buy items from an op shop to use in your business (such as office furniture or supplies), you may be able to claim them as a business expense. It’s important to keep your receipts and speak with a tax professional for advice. For more information, see our guide on how op shops work.

How to claim your op shop donations

To claim a tax deduction for your op shop donations, follow these steps:

• Keep records: Make a list of all the items you’ve donated and their estimated market value. If the charity provides a receipt, keep it in a safe place.
• Check the DGR status: Before you donate, check if the charity is a registered DGR on the Australian Business Register.
• Include it in your tax return: When you’re completing your tax return, include the total value of your donations in the “gifts and donations” section.

So, to answer the question, “can you claim op shop purchases on tax?“, generally no, but your donations can be tax-deductible. By being a responsible donor and keeping good records, you can support a cause and potentially reduce your tax bill. If you’re inspired by their mission, learn how to volunteer at your local store.