How Temporary Workers Can Claim Tax Relief on Expenses

If you're working as a temporary or agency worker, you might not realise you can claim tax relief on certain work-related expenses. It's a simple way to reduce your tax bill, meaning you get to keep more of your hard-earned money.

Here's what you need to know about claiming tax relief:

What Exactly is Tax Relief?

Tax relief reduces the amount of tax you pay by deducting certain work-related expenses from your taxable income. Simply put, if you've paid for things essential to doing your job and your employer hasn't reimbursed you, you could get some money back from HMRC.

What Expenses Can Temporary Workers Claim?

1. Uniforms and Work Clothing

If your job requires a specific uniform or protective clothing, you can claim relief for the cost of cleaning, repairing, or replacing it. For example, this could apply to chef's whites, high-visibility jackets, or safety boots.

2. Travel and Overnight Expenses

If you're travelling between workplaces or staying overnight for work, these expenses might qualify for tax relief:

• Public transport tickets (trains, buses)
• Accommodation costs (hotels or guesthouses)
• Meals and refreshments during work travel
• Parking fees and toll charges

Remember, your daily commute from home to a permanent workplace doesn't qualify.

3. Mileage for Personal Vehicles

Using your own vehicle for work journeys (other than commuting to your usual workplace)? You can claim mileage expenses:

• Cars and vans: 45p per mile (first 10,000 miles), 25p per mile after that.

Make sure to keep clear records of your mileage and journeys.

How to Claim Tax Relief

Claiming is straightforward. If your expenses total less than £2,500 for the tax year, you can submit form P87 online through the HMRC website. If your expenses exceed £2,500, you'll need to complete a Self Assessment tax return.

Always keep receipts or proof of your expenses—HMRC might ask to see these.

Important Tips

• Temporary Workplace Rule: If you're assigned to a workplace for less than 24 months, it's usually classed as temporary, meaning you can claim travel expenses. But if you know from the start that you'll be there for more than 24 months, it won't count.
  
  
• Working Through Umbrella Companies: If you're employed by an umbrella company, they might manage your expenses differently. Always clarify with them how your expenses should be handled.

Final Thoughts

Tax relief is your right, not a privilege. Don't miss out—check what you're entitled to and claim it. For full details and to ensure you're following current guidelines, visit the HMRC website or speak to a tax professional.