Claiming Tax Relief When You Work from Home
Employees who incur costs while working from home and are not reimbursed by their employer. When tax relief may be available for work-related expenses, including tools, clothing and business mileage. Relief is only available in specific circumstances. Claims must be made within strict time limits, and voluntary homeworking does not qualify.Claiming Tax Relief When Working from Home
If you receive no compensation from your employer, you can still claim tax relief for certain costs that arise when working from home. HMRC will usually allow you to claim tax relief if you use your own money for things that you must buy for your job, and you only use these items for work. You must make a claim within four years of the end of the tax year that you spent the money.Costs You May Be Able to Claim
Costs you may be able to claim for include:- If you purchase your own uniforms, work clothing and tools for work
- The cost of repairing or replacing small tools you need to do your job as an employee (for example, scissors or an electric drill)
- Cleaning, repairing or replacing specialist clothing (for example, a uniform or safety boots).
Using Your Own Vehicle for Work
You may also be able to claim tax relief for using your own vehicle, be it a car, van, motorcycle or bike. As a general rule, there is no tax relief for ordinary commuting to and from your work. The rules are different for temporary workplaces where the expense is usually allowable. You should also be able to claim if you use your own vehicle to undertake other business-related mileage.When You Cannot Claim
Please note, if you have agreed with your employer to work at home voluntarily, or if you choose to work at home, you cannot claim tax relief on the bills you have to pay. If you previously claimed tax relief when you worked from home because of coronavirus (COVID-19), you may no longer be eligible for relief.Real-World Application
- An employee who buys and uses specialist clothing solely for work may be able to claim relief on cleaning, repairing or replacing that clothing.
- An employee who repairs or replaces small tools required for their role may be able to claim relief on those costs.
- An employee travelling to a temporary workplace using their own vehicle may be able to claim relief on business-related mileage.
Compliance and Practical Considerations
- Claims must be submitted within four years of the end of the relevant tax year.
- Only items that must be bought for your job and are used solely for work qualify.
- Ordinary commuting remains non-allowable.
- Voluntary homeworking does not qualify for relief on household bills.
Get Professional Advice on Homeworking Tax Relief
Working from home does not automatically entitle you to tax relief, and eligibility depends on whether you are required to work remotely and incur additional household costs. Misunderstanding the rules can lead to rejected claims or missed relief. Seeking professional tax planning services London ensures your position is reviewed before submission. Cigma Accounting, advising individuals from our Farringdon and supporting clients in Finsbury and Kings Cross, provides clear guidance to help you claim correctly.
Accurate calculation and proper evidence are essential to secure relief without enquiry risk. Working with an experienced tax accountant in London helps confirm compliance with HMRC requirements. Cigma Accounting offers practical support with physical offices across London, helping you claim confidently while avoiding unnecessary complications.
WORKING FROM HOME AND UNSURE WHAT YOU CAN CLAIM?
Home working relief depends on whether you’re required to work from home and what additional costs you’ve incurred. Understanding the conditions helps ensure you claim correctly, and avoid overstepping HMRC rules.
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