CAN I CLAIM MY WORKWEAR AS EXPENSES WITHIN MY LIMITED COMPANY OR SOLE TRADE?
You may be able to claim tax relief on the cost of cleaning, repairing or replacing a uniform or specialist clothing (example being overalls or safety boots)
In normal cases, say where someone needs suits, shoes or shirts for their job, this would not be allowable as expenses. This is because they would be considered as an “everyday” wardrobe item which could be worn anywhere and poses dual purpose and not solely attributable for one job.
For an item of clothing to be deductible, the clothing may be a uniform (ideally with a logo), protective clothing where it helps protect the employee whilst working, or costumes needed for work, for example clothing worn by actors on set.
LAYMANS CONCLUSION – TO SUMMARISE UP
If there a logo attached to the actual uniform, this may be allowable as it is acting as advertising for the company which is taking the deduction.
Common protective clothing items which are allowable may be items such as:- High VIS, Safety boots, overalls, trousers with padded knees and helmets.
Although you may have a suit which may have the logo on it, we feel this is probably not the best “look” as its not very common to have a smart suit with logos on them.
LEGISLATION ON THIS FROM HMRC
Claim tax relief for your job expenses: Uniforms, work clothing and tools – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
HOW CAN WE HELP
We can help identify what would qualify as a work uniform as well as see if you should get relief if your company hasn’t provided relief on work wear so we can claim this back on the personal return.