As a small business owner, you’re likely familiar with the idea that not all expenses can be claimed as tax deductions. HMRC (His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) has a stringent set of criteria, including the “wholly and exclusively” test, which states that expenses must be solely for the purpose of the business. But what about clothing expenses? Let’s dive into what’s allowed and what’s not when it comes to claiming clothing as a business expense.
What HMRC Allows
- Protective Clothing: If your work requires Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as goggles, masks, gloves, overalls, or aprons, you’re in luck. Especially in recent times with the focus on safety due to Covid-19, these expenses are deemed necessary for the job and can be claimed.
- Industry-Specific Clothing: Certain industries demand specialized clothing for safety or identification purposes. This might include steel-toe-capped boots, high-visibility jackets, or flame-retardant gear. HMRC acknowledges the necessity of these items and permits their inclusion as deductible expenses.
- Uniforms: Just like protective clothing, uniforms necessary for specific roles can also be claimed. Whether it’s for directors or staff, the full cost of purchasing uniforms is allowable.
- Branded Clothing: Want to promote your brand? You can claim the cost of clothing that showcases your company name or logo. Remember, it should be a permanent feature of the clothing, not just a pin badge.
- Costumes: For performers, actors, actresses, and entertainers, the cost of costumes needed for their roles can be claimed. This even extends to clothing worn for events like film premieres, as long as it’s directly related to their profession.
What You Can’t Claim
- Everyday Wardrobe: Unfortunately, the everyday clothing you wear, such as suits, shirts, blouses, trousers, skirts, ties, or jackets, doesn’t pass HMRC’s criteria for deductible expenses. Even if you argue that you wear them exclusively for business purposes, HMRC contends that they could also be used outside of work and thus can’t be claimed.
In summary, while HMRC does allow for certain clothing expenses to be claimed as business deductions, it’s crucial to adhere to their guidelines. By understanding what’s permissible and what’s not, you can ensure compliance while maximizing your legitimate tax deductions as a small business owner in the UK.
Remember, if you have any doubts or questions about specific expenses, it’s always wise to consult with a qualified accountant or tax advisor to ensure that you’re making the most of available deductions while staying within legal boundaries.
Book a call at letschat@bean-sprout.co.uk to find out more.
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