Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) Return Due Date 2025: What Employers Must Know Before It’s Too Late

Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) often flies under the radar until the deadline looms—and by then, it’s often a scramble. But here’s the thing: If your business provides perks like company vehicles, entertainment, or even reimburses private expenses, the FBT return due date for 2025 isn’t something you can afford to overlook.

Getting it wrong or missing the lodgment window? That can mean hefty ATO penalties, interest charges, or worse—unwanted scrutiny. Whether you're handling your FBT obligations internally or working with a professional, understanding the timeline and responsibilities is essential.

So, what exactly is Fringe Benefits Tax?

FBT is a tax paid by employers on certain non-cash benefits provided to employees or their associates. These can include:

  • Company cars used privately

  • Low-interest loans

  • Event tickets or entertainment

  • Private expense reimbursements

What makes FBT particularly tricky is that it’s calculated separately from income tax and operates on its own reporting timeline. The FBT year for 2025 runs from 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025—not to be confused with the regular financial year.


 Key Lodgment Deadlines for FBT Return in 2025

Here’s where employers need to pay close attention:

  • Manual Lodgment: Due 21 May 2025

  • Lodging via Tax Agent: Due 25 June 2025, if eligible for the extension

These deadlines also apply to payments—yes, that means funds must clear by the due date, not just be scheduled.

But what determines if you're eligible for the extended agent deadline? That depends on a few factors… which we explain in full in our official blog post.

 Why Missing the Deadline Is Risky

Failing to lodge your FBT return on time can result in:

  • Failure to Lodge (FTL) penalties that scale with time

  • General Interest Charges (GIC) applied daily

  • Increased risk of ATO audits

And no, these aren't empty threats. We've seen many small and medium-sized businesses penalised simply because they didn’t know they were non-compliant.

 How to Prepare Effectively

Smart preparation starts with good recordkeeping. Employers should:

  • Maintain odometer readings and car logbooks

  • Collect employee declarations

  • Record any employee contributions (which can reduce your tax liability)

Speaking of which, one of the simplest ways to reduce your FBT is often overlooked. We’ve broken down this method—and two others—right here.

Hint: It involves some forward planning before 31 March 2025.

 Your FBT Checklist—Are You Ready?

Before lodging, you’ll want to confirm that:

  • All taxable benefits are identified and valued

  • Contributions are properly accounted for

  • Any exempt or minor benefits are correctly recorded

  • You’ve reviewed your reportable benefits threshold

But here's the kicker—not all benefits are created equal. Some are fully exempt if structured the right way. If you’re not 100% sure what qualifies, our blog has a comprehensive list you’ll want to bookmark.

FBT isn’t just about forms—it’s about strategy. With different treatment rules, reporting thresholds, and exemptions, many employers now work with registered tax agents to stay ahead of their obligations.

Not sure whether your agent qualifies for the ATO lodgment extension? That’s another detail we dive into in the full article—because it could give you an extra month to breathe.


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