ATO instant asset write-off · Shopify POS

The $20k instant asset write-off: Shopify gear that actually qualifies

21 September 2026

Call Tim on 0417 518 940

21 September 2026

Call Tim on 0417 518 940

21 September 2026

Which Shopify hardware qualifies?

Eligible small businesses (aggregated turnover under $10 million, using simplified depreciation) can immediately deduct the business portion of eligible assets costing less than $20,000 each (excluding GST) when first used or installed ready for use in the income year. Confirm the current ATO rules for your year before you buy. Below is the gear most Australian Shopify stores actually use.

Item	Typical cost (ex-GST)	Qualifies?
Shopify POS terminal (card reader + dock)	$149–$399	Yes
Bluetooth barcode scanner (e.g. SocketScan S740)	$250–$450	Yes
USB 2D barcode scanner (e.g. Honeywell Xenon 1900)	$180–$320	Yes
iPad (10th-gen 64 GB Wi-Fi)	$549	Yes
iPad stand + case bundle	$90–$150	Yes
Receipt printer (Star Micronics TSP143III)	$280–$350	Yes
Cash drawer (RJ11 trigger)	$110–$180	Yes
Label printer (Zebra ZD421)	$380–$480	Yes

Where to upload the invoice in Xero

In Xero go to Accounting → Purchases → New bill.
Enter the supplier and date paid.
Attach the supplier tax invoice (PDF).
Code the line to Plant & Equipment (or create an asset account named "Instant Asset Write-off").
Tick the "Instant asset write-off" box if your accountant has added the custom field.
Save. The asset appears in your fixed-asset register for the income year it was first used or installed ready for use — confirm with your accountant which return that is.

Calendar reminder

Set a reminder a week before 30 June each year (e.g. 23–25 June) titled "Install POS gear before year-end if claiming IAWO this year," and re-check ATO eligibility before you buy.

ATO asset list QR code

Scan this QR with your phone camera to open the ATO's current instant asset write-off list:

https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/income-deductions-offsets-and-records/instant-asset-write-off

Practical takeaway

Buy before 30 June, keep the invoice, upload it to Xero the same day, and you're done. One asset, one bill, one tick-box—simple.