The benchmark interest rate for the FBT year commencing on 1 April 2019 is 5.37% per annum (up from the rate of 5.20% that applied for the previous FBT year).
This rate is used to calculate the taxable value of:
- a fringe benefit provided by way of a loan; and
- a car fringe benefit where an employer chooses to value the benefit using the operating cost method.
Example:
On 1 April 2019 an employer lends an employee $50,000 for five years at an interest rate of 5% p.a. with interest charged and paid six-monthly, and no principal being repaid until the end of the loan.
The actual interest payable by the employee for the current year is $2,500 (i.e., $50,000 x 5%).
However, the notional interest, with a 5.37% benchmark rate, is $2,685, so the taxable value is $185 (i.e., $2,685 – $2,500).
Disclaimer
This publication is intended as a general commentary only and does not purport to be comprehensive. It should not be regarded as tax advice and you should not act solely on the information contained herein. Please contact AscendPoint to further discuss about your circumstances or concerns.